Chronic Illness Counselling in Kareela, NSW

Photo of Marie Farthing - Marie Farthing, Counselling & Therapeutic Supports, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Marie Farthing, Counselling & Therapeutic Supports
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Kareela, NSW 2232
Safe, sensitive, inclusive counselling & therapeutic supports for children, adolescents and adults. My therapeutic style is warm, creative and adaptable. I create a space where you can feel safe, understood and accepted. I focus on your strengths. I help you identify what you are doing well and build on those abilities. My specialist skills can help people of all ages and abilities to express their thoughts and feelings creatively.
Safe, sensitive, inclusive counselling & therapeutic supports for children, adolescents and adults. My therapeutic style is warm, creative and adaptable. I create a space where you can feel safe, understood and accepted. I focus on your strengths. I help you identify what you are doing well and build on those abilities. My specialist skills can help people of all ages and abilities to express their thoughts and feelings creatively.
(02) 9538 7872 View (02) 9538 7872
Photo of Kim Shade - Sydney Strategic Therapy-Hypnotherapy/Counselling, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Sydney Strategic Therapy-Hypnotherapy/Counselling
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Kareela, NSW 2232
Clinical Hypnotherapy/Counselling/Psychotherapy can help you manage a busy life by facilitating effective strategies that support you. I treat issues with phobia's, addiction, weight loss, sleep, relationship issues, performance, grief, anxiety, stress within a warm, relaxed, non-judgemental environment I will provide guidance to assist you to: Develop new insights into the nature and origins of your current difficulties. Identify & challenge the behaviours, thoughts & beliefs that are creating distress. You will discover new ways of thinking and behaving that enhance well-being and allow you to achieve your full potential.
Clinical Hypnotherapy/Counselling/Psychotherapy can help you manage a busy life by facilitating effective strategies that support you. I treat issues with phobia's, addiction, weight loss, sleep, relationship issues, performance, grief, anxiety, stress within a warm, relaxed, non-judgemental environment I will provide guidance to assist you to: Develop new insights into the nature and origins of your current difficulties. Identify & challenge the behaviours, thoughts & beliefs that are creating distress. You will discover new ways of thinking and behaving that enhance well-being and allow you to achieve your full potential.
(02) 9159 6172 View (02) 9159 6172

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Martina Link - Balance your Life Counselling - Martina Link, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Balance your Life Counselling - Martina Link
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
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 Shiraze Bulsara - The Sydney Psychology Practice, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
The Sydney Psychology Practice
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
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 Toni Leemen, Psychotherapist
Toni Leemen
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
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 Careena Cook, Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Careena Cook
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
With 3O years experience in counselling, mental health and recovery I have confidence in working with adults who experienced childhood trauma, abuse and neglect, which manifests as anxiety, panic, chronic pain, chronic illness, complex grief and addiction.
I have 30 years experience in counselling and mental health recovery, 13 of those as a Trauma-Informed Psychotherapist in Private Practice. I specialise in working with adult individuals struggling with generalised anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, low self esteem and disconnection. My work includes supporting people to recover from stuck patterns of thinking and behaviour by helping them connect to positive parts of themselves, their creativity and sense of humour. I am experienced in a number of modalities, including EMDR, which has proven to be a very successful technique in shifting trauma and negative self beliefs.
With 3O years experience in counselling, mental health and recovery I have confidence in working with adults who experienced childhood trauma, abuse and neglect, which manifests as anxiety, panic, chronic pain, chronic illness, complex grief and addiction.
I have 30 years experience in counselling and mental health recovery, 13 of those as a Trauma-Informed Psychotherapist in Private Practice. I specialise in working with adult individuals struggling with generalised anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, low self esteem and disconnection. My work includes supporting people to recover from stuck patterns of thinking and behaviour by helping them connect to positive parts of themselves, their creativity and sense of humour. I am experienced in a number of modalities, including EMDR, which has proven to be a very successful technique in shifting trauma and negative self beliefs.
(02) 8000 1467 View (02) 8000 1467
Photo of Bronwyn Bickle, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Bronwyn Bickle
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Bronwyn, and I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM) and chronic illness through online and in-person counselling.
With 30+ years lived experience with chronic illness, I understand many of the challenges faced by individuals living with illness and/or pain, including; endless Drs appointments, financial pressures, fatigue, and social expectations. Clients often discuss topics such as feeling of being a burden to others, career dilemmas, medical trauma and life purpose.
Hi, I'm Bronwyn, and I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM) and chronic illness through online and in-person counselling.
With 30+ years lived experience with chronic illness, I understand many of the challenges faced by individuals living with illness and/or pain, including; endless Drs appointments, financial pressures, fatigue, and social expectations. Clients often discuss topics such as feeling of being a burden to others, career dilemmas, medical trauma and life purpose.
(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
Verified Verified
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 Cassie Sell, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Cassie Sell
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, NSW 2044
My expertise includes working with grief, trauma, ADHD, substance use, and life transitions, as well as supporting university students, women’s mental health, and chronic illness.
My clients normally feel disconnected from themselves, others, or the world. They may be struggling with anxiety, stress, grief, trauma, or life transitions. Their needs include authentic connection, a safe space for self-exploration, and practical tools for emotional well-being. Their goals are to find clarity, heal, and create meaningful change. They want therapy that is grounded in nature, creative, and holistic, helping them reconnect with themselves and build resilience for the future.
My expertise includes working with grief, trauma, ADHD, substance use, and life transitions, as well as supporting university students, women’s mental health, and chronic illness.
My clients normally feel disconnected from themselves, others, or the world. They may be struggling with anxiety, stress, grief, trauma, or life transitions. Their needs include authentic connection, a safe space for self-exploration, and practical tools for emotional well-being. Their goals are to find clarity, heal, and create meaningful change. They want therapy that is grounded in nature, creative, and holistic, helping them reconnect with themselves and build resilience for the future.
0488 259 326 View 0488 259 326
Photo of Dr Sharon Gold, Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Dr Sharon Gold
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Woollahra, NSW 2025
Perhaps you have recently suffered a loss or going through a major life transition or chronic illness?
As an EMDR Therapist and Level 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapy trained psychologist, I am able to provide you with comprehensive assessments and an integrative, tailored treatment approach within a biopsychosocial framework drawing from evidence-based psychological therapies. Therapy with me is goal focused and safe so that you can make changes quickly.
Perhaps you have recently suffered a loss or going through a major life transition or chronic illness?
As an EMDR Therapist and Level 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapy trained psychologist, I am able to provide you with comprehensive assessments and an integrative, tailored treatment approach within a biopsychosocial framework drawing from evidence-based psychological therapies. Therapy with me is goal focused and safe so that you can make changes quickly.
(02) 4062 8754 View (02) 4062 8754
Photo of Shareen Birges
Shareen Birges
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parramatta, NSW 2150
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in mental health, trauma (including childhood trauma & sexual abuse/assault), domestic violence, parenting, cancer & chronic illness, offending behaviour, & BPD.
I have been a counsellor, case manager & youth worker since 2008. Prior to 2016 I worked primarily with young people & their families, however I can & have worked with people across the age spectrum, all with unique & varied needs. Counselling is an individual experience & I want you to feel that no matter what, your needs are important. This is why I aim to provide an accessible, affordable & sustainable service. I believe I can help you on your journey towards the best version of yourself. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult & see if you agree.
I specialise in mental health, trauma (including childhood trauma & sexual abuse/assault), domestic violence, parenting, cancer & chronic illness, offending behaviour, & BPD.
I have been a counsellor, case manager & youth worker since 2008. Prior to 2016 I worked primarily with young people & their families, however I can & have worked with people across the age spectrum, all with unique & varied needs. Counselling is an individual experience & I want you to feel that no matter what, your needs are important. This is why I aim to provide an accessible, affordable & sustainable service. I believe I can help you on your journey towards the best version of yourself. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult & see if you agree.
(02) 9159 6730 View (02) 9159 6730
Photo of Lila Juliette Pesa, Psychotherapist
Lila Juliette Pesa
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
Other areas of practice: cancer-informed supportive psychotherapy; living with chronic illness; grief and loss / bereavement / traumatic grief; migrant issues; couple counselling for beginning or renewing a relationship, re-discovering the meaning of a partnership, recovery work with traumatized couples; support with conscious un-coupling / co-parenting.
I am a qualified and experienced psychotherapist, clinical member of PACFA, ACA, EMDRAA and CCP. I am committed to supporting my client's self-discovery and self-expression by offering respectful, compassionate and attuned presence, therapeutic skills and experience. I offer support with meaning making, trauma recovery, facilitating post-traumatic growth. I can be of support to people affected by childhood trauma / attachment traumas, emotional pain from the past affecting present; challenges with addictive patterns, disordered eating, body image and self-identity, complex family dynamics, ancestral trauma, relationship issues.
Other areas of practice: cancer-informed supportive psychotherapy; living with chronic illness; grief and loss / bereavement / traumatic grief; migrant issues; couple counselling for beginning or renewing a relationship, re-discovering the meaning of a partnership, recovery work with traumatized couples; support with conscious un-coupling / co-parenting.
I am a qualified and experienced psychotherapist, clinical member of PACFA, ACA, EMDRAA and CCP. I am committed to supporting my client's self-discovery and self-expression by offering respectful, compassionate and attuned presence, therapeutic skills and experience. I offer support with meaning making, trauma recovery, facilitating post-traumatic growth. I can be of support to people affected by childhood trauma / attachment traumas, emotional pain from the past affecting present; challenges with addictive patterns, disordered eating, body image and self-identity, complex family dynamics, ancestral trauma, relationship issues.
(02) 9100 0902 View (02) 9100 0902
Photo of Rae Sabine - Creating Wellbeing Melbourne, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Creating Wellbeing Melbourne
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
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
Photo of Patricia Evans, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Patricia Evans
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
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 Adam Ryan Park - Adam Ryan Park - The Curiosity Space, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Adam Ryan Park - The Curiosity Space
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Masters-qualified Counsellor and graduate-qualified Rehabilitation Counsellor, with specialisation in chronic illness/injury and disability.
Many of my clients are exhausted from a life in which everyone else's needs have always been made more important than their own. From the earliest age, they weren't supported to have boundaries, and now find themselves struggling with self-esteem, low mood, anxiety, problems with keeping supportive friendships and partnerships alive, struggling to assert themselves at work or cope with professional demands, and feeling stuck in relationship dynamics in which they can't be their true self. They want to put their painful past behind them, and to have their needs recognised and allowed space going forward.
I am a Masters-qualified Counsellor and graduate-qualified Rehabilitation Counsellor, with specialisation in chronic illness/injury and disability.
Many of my clients are exhausted from a life in which everyone else's needs have always been made more important than their own. From the earliest age, they weren't supported to have boundaries, and now find themselves struggling with self-esteem, low mood, anxiety, problems with keeping supportive friendships and partnerships alive, struggling to assert themselves at work or cope with professional demands, and feeling stuck in relationship dynamics in which they can't be their true self. They want to put their painful past behind them, and to have their needs recognised and allowed space going forward.
(03) 7003 2762 View (03) 7003 2762
Photo of Sasha MacBride - Nationwide Grief Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Nationwide Grief Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
Grief, loss, chronic illness, and trauma are the main issues I treat.
Hi! My name is Sasha and I am an experienced grief, loss and trauma counsellor. Are you 'stuck' in your grief, overwhelmed, lacking motivation, struggling to engage with the world around you? Are you worried that you will never feel happy again?
Grief, loss, chronic illness, and trauma are the main issues I treat.
Hi! My name is Sasha and I am an experienced grief, loss and trauma counsellor. Are you 'stuck' in your grief, overwhelmed, lacking motivation, struggling to engage with the world around you? Are you worried that you will never feel happy again?
(02) 9100 0767 View (02) 9100 0767
Photo of Lauren Barrett, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Lauren Barrett
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I work with adults living with eating disorders, experiencing acute and chronic injuries, chronic illness, psychological distress and diagnoses (particularly trauma and personality disorders).
If you are struggling with a life change, injury or a mental health condition, please reach out to discuss your needs and how I may be able to assist you to reach your goals and reduce symptoms via a collaborative, person-centred treatment approach. I offer self-help courses teaching mindfulness and DBT skills on our website.
I work with adults living with eating disorders, experiencing acute and chronic injuries, chronic illness, psychological distress and diagnoses (particularly trauma and personality disorders).
If you are struggling with a life change, injury or a mental health condition, please reach out to discuss your needs and how I may be able to assist you to reach your goals and reduce symptoms via a collaborative, person-centred treatment approach. I offer self-help courses teaching mindfulness and DBT skills on our website.
(02) 5016 1101 View (02) 5016 1101
Photo of Cal Paterson - Whychange Psychology Services, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Whychange Psychology Services
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Croydon, NSW 2132
Founded in 2006 with a small but growing team of talented psychologists, we specialise in both short-term and long-term work on a wide range of problems. Our psychologists specialise in adult and adolescent individual and family sessions, to address mental illness, adjustment difficulties, interpersonal conflict, workplace stress, as well as complex challenges such as trauma, chronic illness, and relationship breakdown. Set in a quiet location with easy parking and access to public transport nearby.
Founded in 2006 with a small but growing team of talented psychologists, we specialise in both short-term and long-term work on a wide range of problems. Our psychologists specialise in adult and adolescent individual and family sessions, to address mental illness, adjustment difficulties, interpersonal conflict, workplace stress, as well as complex challenges such as trauma, chronic illness, and relationship breakdown. Set in a quiet location with easy parking and access to public transport nearby.
(02) 9538 7026 View (02) 9538 7026
Photo of Janet Burke - The Holding Space Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Janet Burke - The Holding Space Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
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 Brendan Lowe, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brendan Lowe
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Online Only
As someone with personal lived experience of cancer I also have an interest in working with individuals experiencing chronic illness or cancer.
I provide a warm, emotion-focused approach when working with clients. I utilise a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Schema Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and exposure based approaches to trauma including Prolonged Exposure and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
As someone with personal lived experience of cancer I also have an interest in working with individuals experiencing chronic illness or cancer.
I provide a warm, emotion-focused approach when working with clients. I utilise a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Schema Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and exposure based approaches to trauma including Prolonged Exposure and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
(02) 4075 5927 View (02) 4075 5927
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.