Chronic Illness Counselling in Alexandria, NSW

Photo of Shiraze Bulsara - The Sydney Psychology Practice, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
The Sydney Psychology Practice
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Shiraze is a clinical psychologist with experience treating the psychological effects of chronic illness and supporting people of diverse cultures, sexualities and genders.
The Sydney Psychology Practice is focused on supporting clients to make sustainable change. Our team has extensive experience with a diverse range of clients and concerns, and using treatments with demonstrated research efficacy.
Shiraze is a clinical psychologist with experience treating the psychological effects of chronic illness and supporting people of diverse cultures, sexualities and genders.
The Sydney Psychology Practice is focused on supporting clients to make sustainable change. Our team has extensive experience with a diverse range of clients and concerns, and using treatments with demonstrated research efficacy.
(02) 9100 0631 View (02) 9100 0631
Photo of Anthea Cottee, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Anthea Cottee
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, NSW 2015
“I’d love to help you develop a supportive, kind and caring relationship with yourself, and secure and fulfilling relationships with others. Working with you to understand why you respond to the world like you do, what really matters to you, and supporting behaviour that back up your ambitions is my jam. We all face challenges in how we relate to ourselves and the world. I believe developing a sense of psychological safety and flexibility, and nurturing emotional intelligence and agility are key to recovering, striving and thriving in all parts of your life”
“I’d love to help you develop a supportive, kind and caring relationship with yourself, and secure and fulfilling relationships with others. Working with you to understand why you respond to the world like you do, what really matters to you, and supporting behaviour that back up your ambitions is my jam. We all face challenges in how we relate to ourselves and the world. I believe developing a sense of psychological safety and flexibility, and nurturing emotional intelligence and agility are key to recovering, striving and thriving in all parts of your life”
(02) 9100 0198 View (02) 9100 0198
Photo of Tal Schlosser - MyLife Psychologists, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
MyLife Psychologists
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Alexandria, NSW 2015
Our experienced Clinical Psychologists help adults and adolescents (16+) in overcoming mental health challenges. We know life can be tough, and everyone deserves compassionate and professional guidance. At MyLife Psychologists, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. We take the time to understand your unique needs and preferences, ensuring you’re matched with the most appropriate clinician who can provide tailored, compassionate care. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next steps to take, we're here to help. It’s important to us that you feel heard and understood – and that you’re not alone.
Our experienced Clinical Psychologists help adults and adolescents (16+) in overcoming mental health challenges. We know life can be tough, and everyone deserves compassionate and professional guidance. At MyLife Psychologists, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. We take the time to understand your unique needs and preferences, ensuring you’re matched with the most appropriate clinician who can provide tailored, compassionate care. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next steps to take, we're here to help. It’s important to us that you feel heard and understood – and that you’re not alone.
(02) 9100 0547 View (02) 9100 0547
Photo of Ilona Gaudin, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Ilona Gaudin
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, NSW 2015
“How awesome to find you taking a brave leap and considering me to be your psychologist. I’m looking forward to meeting you, and getting to be your partner in your therapeutic journey. There is so much power in a warm, secure, non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship to promote true healing and meaningful change. I believe whole-heartedly in providing that kind of space and energy for you at every session. Over my life I have been working hard to gain a wealth of experience and knowledge in counselling in a wide range of modalities. I feel confident that I can help you on your pathway to the best version of yourself."
“How awesome to find you taking a brave leap and considering me to be your psychologist. I’m looking forward to meeting you, and getting to be your partner in your therapeutic journey. There is so much power in a warm, secure, non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship to promote true healing and meaningful change. I believe whole-heartedly in providing that kind of space and energy for you at every session. Over my life I have been working hard to gain a wealth of experience and knowledge in counselling in a wide range of modalities. I feel confident that I can help you on your pathway to the best version of yourself."
1300 045 646 View 1300 045 646
Photo of Lauren Cross, Psychologist, MAPS
Lauren Cross
Psychologist, MAPS
Alexandria, NSW 2015
“So much meaning and purpose in my life, comes from helping people like yourself navigate difficult times, and empowering you to live a life with vitality. It is a precious thing to be trusted with the stories of my clients and I believe it’s so important to provide a safe, nurturing therapeutic space to empower you to create the life you deserve When you work with me, we are in this together. You will come to know me as an open-minded, approachable human with a healthy sense of humour”
“So much meaning and purpose in my life, comes from helping people like yourself navigate difficult times, and empowering you to live a life with vitality. It is a precious thing to be trusted with the stories of my clients and I believe it’s so important to provide a safe, nurturing therapeutic space to empower you to create the life you deserve When you work with me, we are in this together. You will come to know me as an open-minded, approachable human with a healthy sense of humour”
(02) 9158 6351 View (02) 9158 6351
Photo of Charlene Neuhoff - RewireMe Psychology Practice, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
RewireMe Psychology Practice
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Alexandria, NSW 2015
“Thank you for wanting to build a relationship with one of our psychologists. If you've been searching for a space where you can feel comfortable, loved and seen for the real you - we will be perfect for each other. At our practice every thought is given to your experience and your unique journey. Our time together will be grounded in meaning, purpose and your evolution. Over the years, we have built strong relationships with our clients, and developed a cutting-edge practice based on the reputation of our work. Personal growth and human optimisation is our healthy(ish) obsession!" - Principal Psychologist Charlene Neuhoff
“Thank you for wanting to build a relationship with one of our psychologists. If you've been searching for a space where you can feel comfortable, loved and seen for the real you - we will be perfect for each other. At our practice every thought is given to your experience and your unique journey. Our time together will be grounded in meaning, purpose and your evolution. Over the years, we have built strong relationships with our clients, and developed a cutting-edge practice based on the reputation of our work. Personal growth and human optimisation is our healthy(ish) obsession!" - Principal Psychologist Charlene Neuhoff
(02) 8294 2098 View (02) 8294 2098
Photo of Felicity Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Felicity Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I've spent my counselling career in grief and loss, supporting clients through illness, bereavement, caring, and the various losses that come with major life transitions. I'm not into toxic positivity – sometimes life really is hard – but I can offer a space to laugh and cry and rage and vent, and find ways together to keep moving forward.
I've spent my counselling career in grief and loss, supporting clients through illness, bereavement, caring, and the various losses that come with major life transitions. I'm not into toxic positivity – sometimes life really is hard – but I can offer a space to laugh and cry and rage and vent, and find ways together to keep moving forward.
0422 126 557 View 0422 126 557
Photo of Dr Joshua Comyn, Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L3
Dr Joshua Comyn
Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Something isn’t quite right. It may be that you can’t stop yourself from worrying. Or you are compulsively avoiding things (places, people, certain situations). Perhaps you find yourself flying into a sudden, uncontrollable, panic. It may be that you are feeling down: you can’t shake the sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness in your life. You may be feeling worthless and guilty too. It could be your relationships that aren’t working (partner, friends, family, boss, or colleagues). Perhaps past experiences are haunting you so that you lose your connection to the present and the people in it. Perhaps it's all of the above.
Something isn’t quite right. It may be that you can’t stop yourself from worrying. Or you are compulsively avoiding things (places, people, certain situations). Perhaps you find yourself flying into a sudden, uncontrollable, panic. It may be that you are feeling down: you can’t shake the sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness in your life. You may be feeling worthless and guilty too. It could be your relationships that aren’t working (partner, friends, family, boss, or colleagues). Perhaps past experiences are haunting you so that you lose your connection to the present and the people in it. Perhaps it's all of the above.
(03) 7003 2150 View (03) 7003 2150
Photo of Hanna Janssen-Kallenberg, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Hanna Janssen-Kallenberg
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
In order to support you navigating your life's challenges, I use a holistic approach, aiming to understand your personal difficulties within the complexity of your life. I believe understanding the root cause of your emotional distress and unhealthy coping mechanisms is important to create lasting change. My work focuses on processing trauma and emotional wounds to heal and integrate wounded parts of yourself. I work with individuals experiencing difficult life transitions, relationship issues, low self-esteem, post traumatic stress (single event and complex trauma, attachment trauma), (chronic) anxiety and depression.
In order to support you navigating your life's challenges, I use a holistic approach, aiming to understand your personal difficulties within the complexity of your life. I believe understanding the root cause of your emotional distress and unhealthy coping mechanisms is important to create lasting change. My work focuses on processing trauma and emotional wounds to heal and integrate wounded parts of yourself. I work with individuals experiencing difficult life transitions, relationship issues, low self-esteem, post traumatic stress (single event and complex trauma, attachment trauma), (chronic) anxiety and depression.
(03) 8400 0924 View (03) 8400 0924
Photo of Alex Dunwoodie, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Alex Dunwoodie
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Serves Area
I am a Psychotherapist and Counsellor committed to create a safe and nurturing space for clients to explore their strengths, develop coping strategies, and enhance their self-awareness. I provide support for a wide range of mental health concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, parenting and personal growth.
I am a Psychotherapist and Counsellor committed to create a safe and nurturing space for clients to explore their strengths, develop coping strategies, and enhance their self-awareness. I provide support for a wide range of mental health concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, parenting and personal growth.
(02) 8000 0822 View (02) 8000 0822
Photo of Patrick Eid, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Patrick Eid
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Patrick. I'm a clinical psychologist passionate about offering thoughtful, affirming care for people who are navigating life with depth, insight, and complexity. As a Queer person from a culturally diverse background, I know how hard it can be to find a therapist who truly understands identity, intersectionality, and the broader systems we move through. My practice is built on the belief that mental health support should feel safe, empowering, and free from judgment. I enjoy working with people who are self-reflective, curious, and ready to invest in their growth.
Hi, I'm Patrick. I'm a clinical psychologist passionate about offering thoughtful, affirming care for people who are navigating life with depth, insight, and complexity. As a Queer person from a culturally diverse background, I know how hard it can be to find a therapist who truly understands identity, intersectionality, and the broader systems we move through. My practice is built on the belief that mental health support should feel safe, empowering, and free from judgment. I enjoy working with people who are self-reflective, curious, and ready to invest in their growth.
(02) 8322 9090 View (02) 8322 9090
Photo of Stephen Jon Ward - makingsensecounselling.com, Counsellor, PACFA
makingsensecounselling.com
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
Across all ages growth and learning never stops as we respond to the inevitability of life changes. My expertise as a mental health coach and a counsellor lies in collaborating with your strengths, courage and willingness to solve your problems, heal your pain and make you feel better about yourself. I am passionate about empowering wellbeing, enhancing self-belief and building resilience. I am best able to help by connecting with you on a meaningful level to generate clarity to your personal challenges and to facilitate the opening up of possibilities for you now, and for your future.
Across all ages growth and learning never stops as we respond to the inevitability of life changes. My expertise as a mental health coach and a counsellor lies in collaborating with your strengths, courage and willingness to solve your problems, heal your pain and make you feel better about yourself. I am passionate about empowering wellbeing, enhancing self-belief and building resilience. I am best able to help by connecting with you on a meaningful level to generate clarity to your personal challenges and to facilitate the opening up of possibilities for you now, and for your future.
(02) 8503 4107 View (02) 8503 4107

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Bronwyn Bickle, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Bronwyn Bickle
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM), chronic illness, and neurodivergence – and I hold safe, affirming space for LGBTQIA+, kink, and BDSM communities.
With 30+ years of lived experience navigating chronic illness and pain, I understand what it means to carry invisible weight; medical gaslighting, fatigue, the sense of being ‘too much’ or ‘not enough’ in a world that doesn’t always get it. Whether it’s grief, career uncertainty, burnout or just needing to say things out loud, I'm here for it!
I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM), chronic illness, and neurodivergence – and I hold safe, affirming space for LGBTQIA+, kink, and BDSM communities.
With 30+ years of lived experience navigating chronic illness and pain, I understand what it means to carry invisible weight; medical gaslighting, fatigue, the sense of being ‘too much’ or ‘not enough’ in a world that doesn’t always get it. Whether it’s grief, career uncertainty, burnout or just needing to say things out loud, I'm here for it!
(08) 7523 4519 View (08) 7523 4519
Photo of Jessica Cove - Jessica Cove Holistic Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Jessica Cove Holistic Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I specialise in supporting individuals facing challenges involving perfectionism, burnout, chronic illness, overwhelm and anxiety.
I provide neuroaffirming care and practice according to trauma-aware principles, acknowledging and welcoming people of all experiences, identities and bodies. My practice is a LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC safe space and I pay deep respect and celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
I specialise in supporting individuals facing challenges involving perfectionism, burnout, chronic illness, overwhelm and anxiety.
I provide neuroaffirming care and practice according to trauma-aware principles, acknowledging and welcoming people of all experiences, identities and bodies. My practice is a LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC safe space and I pay deep respect and celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
(07) 5240 9171 View (07) 5240 9171
Photo of Toni Leemen, Psychotherapist
Toni Leemen
Psychotherapist
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
I trained as a therapist because I know the grief, health-related anxiety and depression of chronic illness can be overwhelming.
I work holistically with the mind-body connection using present experience. Greater awareness of the nuances between physical symptoms, emotions, sensations and patterns of thinking and experience can create more choice, a better relationship with yourself, your body and your condition.
I trained as a therapist because I know the grief, health-related anxiety and depression of chronic illness can be overwhelming.
I work holistically with the mind-body connection using present experience. Greater awareness of the nuances between physical symptoms, emotions, sensations and patterns of thinking and experience can create more choice, a better relationship with yourself, your body and your condition.
(02) 9159 6502 View (02) 9159 6502
Photo of Martina Link - Balance your Life Counselling - Martina Link, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Balance your Life Counselling - Martina Link
Counsellor, ACA-L1
3 Endorsed
Terrey Hills, NSW 2084
Life can be overwhelming, especially when facing challenges like chronic illness, loss & grief, interpersonal relationship issues and general emotional distress.
Apart from an understanding and empathic approach of your therapist, one of the most important aspects of effective counselling is the ability to communicate freely and comfortably, without any language barriers. That's why I offer counselling sessions also in German, for those who feel more comfortable to address their issues in their native language.
Life can be overwhelming, especially when facing challenges like chronic illness, loss & grief, interpersonal relationship issues and general emotional distress.
Apart from an understanding and empathic approach of your therapist, one of the most important aspects of effective counselling is the ability to communicate freely and comfortably, without any language barriers. That's why I offer counselling sessions also in German, for those who feel more comfortable to address their issues in their native language.
(02) 8403 1165 View (02) 8403 1165
Photo of Patricia Evans, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Patricia Evans
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My areas of specialty include complex trauma, chronic illness, grief, and depressive and anxiety disorders.
I hold a Master of Clinical Psychology and am registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). I have experience with clients across the lifespan and facing diverse psychological and emotional challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and sleep disturbances. I have a particular interest in supporting healthcare workers in overcoming work-related trauma. My work spans early intervention and long-term support for those with prolonged difficulties.
My areas of specialty include complex trauma, chronic illness, grief, and depressive and anxiety disorders.
I hold a Master of Clinical Psychology and am registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). I have experience with clients across the lifespan and facing diverse psychological and emotional challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and sleep disturbances. I have a particular interest in supporting healthcare workers in overcoming work-related trauma. My work spans early intervention and long-term support for those with prolonged difficulties.
(03) 7003 2277 View (03) 7003 2277
Photo of Gabriella Macri, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Gabriella Macri
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
I support people struggling with anxiety, panic, emotional regulation, depression, grief, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, chronic illness and self-development.
I engage in client-centred therapy that acknowledges and validates my client's strengths, difficulties, and personal goals. I provide a warm and flexible therapeutic environment where my clients feel safe and accepted in expressing their thoughts and feelings.
I support people struggling with anxiety, panic, emotional regulation, depression, grief, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, chronic illness and self-development.
I engage in client-centred therapy that acknowledges and validates my client's strengths, difficulties, and personal goals. I provide a warm and flexible therapeutic environment where my clients feel safe and accepted in expressing their thoughts and feelings.
(08) 6493 7980 View (08) 6493 7980
Photo of Janet Burke - The Holding Space Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Janet Burke - The Holding Space Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
With specialist skills in grief, chronic illness and infertility I work from a somatic and trauma informed lens.
I have a particular passion for working with children and young people, and find I learn a lot from their perspective and insight. I have worked with children, young people and their families for over 25 years to support resilience and coping and would love to work with you to support whatever it is you are currently struggling with.
With specialist skills in grief, chronic illness and infertility I work from a somatic and trauma informed lens.
I have a particular passion for working with children and young people, and find I learn a lot from their perspective and insight. I have worked with children, young people and their families for over 25 years to support resilience and coping and would love to work with you to support whatever it is you are currently struggling with.
0402 350 782 View 0402 350 782
Photo of Rae Sabine - Creating Wellbeing Melbourne, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Creating Wellbeing Melbourne
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
***PLEASE CONTACT ME VIA EMAIL*** Hi, I'm Rae (they/them) and I'm a trans non-binary and multiple neurodivergent registered supervisor (I avoids using the term ‘clinical’ to describe the supervision work I do, as I prefer to use non-clinical language in my approaches), arts therapist, and psychotherapist with a lived experience of chronic illness.
When working therapeutically, I use person-centred, strengths-based and peer support approaches to assist individuals to access their internal resources and building their resilience. My core values include; connection, expression, creativity, imagination, curiosity, authenticity, courage, empowerment, personal congruence and autonomy.
***PLEASE CONTACT ME VIA EMAIL*** Hi, I'm Rae (they/them) and I'm a trans non-binary and multiple neurodivergent registered supervisor (I avoids using the term ‘clinical’ to describe the supervision work I do, as I prefer to use non-clinical language in my approaches), arts therapist, and psychotherapist with a lived experience of chronic illness.
When working therapeutically, I use person-centred, strengths-based and peer support approaches to assist individuals to access their internal resources and building their resilience. My core values include; connection, expression, creativity, imagination, curiosity, authenticity, courage, empowerment, personal congruence and autonomy.
(03) 7302 2943 View (03) 7302 2943
Chronic Illness Counsellors

How does therapy for chronic illness work?

Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.

Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?

Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?

No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.

How long does therapy for chronic illness take?

There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.