Chronic Illness Counselling in Kogarah, NSW

Photo of Rebecca Dooley, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rebecca Dooley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Rebecca is a registered psychologist who completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science with First Class Honours at the Australian Catholic University (ACU) and a Master of Clinical Psychology at University of Technology Sydney (UTS). Rebecca adopts a warm, collaborative and trauma-informed approach to empower individuals to enact meaningful change in their life. Rebecca enjoys working with individuals across the lifespan, who may be experiencing mood or anxiety disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, relationship/attachment difficulties, difficulties with emotion regulation or those navigating significant life stressors.
Rebecca is a registered psychologist who completed a Bachelor of Psychological Science with First Class Honours at the Australian Catholic University (ACU) and a Master of Clinical Psychology at University of Technology Sydney (UTS). Rebecca adopts a warm, collaborative and trauma-informed approach to empower individuals to enact meaningful change in their life. Rebecca enjoys working with individuals across the lifespan, who may be experiencing mood or anxiety disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, relationship/attachment difficulties, difficulties with emotion regulation or those navigating significant life stressors.
(02) 8105 5672 View (02) 8105 5672
Photo of Rachel Pollard, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rachel Pollard
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Rachel is a Psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Rachel has completed a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) at the Australian Catholic University, and both a Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science and Master of Psychology (Clinical) at Bond University. Rachel’s approach to treatment is trauma informed, warm, and non-judgemental. She ensures compassionate, empathetic care, regardless of presentation or concern. Rachel enjoys working with clients across the life span, delivering both individual and group-based therapy. She has previous experience working in both education and private practice settings.
Rachel is a Psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Rachel has completed a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) at the Australian Catholic University, and both a Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science and Master of Psychology (Clinical) at Bond University. Rachel’s approach to treatment is trauma informed, warm, and non-judgemental. She ensures compassionate, empathetic care, regardless of presentation or concern. Rachel enjoys working with clients across the life span, delivering both individual and group-based therapy. She has previous experience working in both education and private practice settings.
(02) 8105 5795 View (02) 8105 5795
Photo of Anastasia Hronis, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Anastasia Hronis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Dr Anastasia Hronis (B Psych Hons, M Clin Psych, AMusA, LMusA, Ph.D) is a clinical psychologist and founder of the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Anastasia provides individual and group therapy. Anastasia also holds the position of Honorary Associate at the University of Technology Sydney, where she provides lectures and research supervision to students in the Master of Clinical Psychology Program.
Dr Anastasia Hronis (B Psych Hons, M Clin Psych, AMusA, LMusA, Ph.D) is a clinical psychologist and founder of the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Anastasia provides individual and group therapy. Anastasia also holds the position of Honorary Associate at the University of Technology Sydney, where she provides lectures and research supervision to students in the Master of Clinical Psychology Program.
(02) 8105 5006 View (02) 8105 5006
Photo of Lynda Daniels, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Lynda Daniels
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Lynda is a psychologist (clinical registrar) at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. She has a warm, non-judgemental therapeutic style, drawing on her life experience and empathetic nature to help clients work towards achieving their therapeutic goals within the framework of evidence-based psychological therapy. Lynda completed her Masters of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). Prior to this Lynda completed her undergraduate psychology studies at Monash University and the Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP), and her undergraduate science degree at the University of Wollongong.
Lynda is a psychologist (clinical registrar) at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. She has a warm, non-judgemental therapeutic style, drawing on her life experience and empathetic nature to help clients work towards achieving their therapeutic goals within the framework of evidence-based psychological therapy. Lynda completed her Masters of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). Prior to this Lynda completed her undergraduate psychology studies at Monash University and the Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP), and her undergraduate science degree at the University of Wollongong.
(02) 8105 6531 View (02) 8105 6531
Photo of Tala Mansour - Centred Life Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Centred Life Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Finding the right EMDR psychologist in Sydney can feel overwhelming. You deserve a therapist who truly sees you, someone who understands your unique identity and moves at a pace that feels right for you. We provide a safe, culturally sensitive, and spiritually grounded space where we move at a pace that feels right for you.
Finding the right EMDR psychologist in Sydney can feel overwhelming. You deserve a therapist who truly sees you, someone who understands your unique identity and moves at a pace that feels right for you. We provide a safe, culturally sensitive, and spiritually grounded space where we move at a pace that feels right for you.
(02) 8105 6350 View (02) 8105 6350
Photo of Georgia Ashworth, Psychologist
Georgia Ashworth
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Georgia is a psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. She has a genuine and empathetic therapeutic style, committed to providing a non-judgemental space to achieve therapeutic goals through evidence-based psychological therapy. Georgia is a registered psychologist and clinical psychology registrar who completed her Masters of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), as well as previous studies in psychology at Macquarie University (MQ) and the Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP). She has an interest in public health, having completed research on gambling and drug addictions.
Georgia is a psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. She has a genuine and empathetic therapeutic style, committed to providing a non-judgemental space to achieve therapeutic goals through evidence-based psychological therapy. Georgia is a registered psychologist and clinical psychology registrar who completed her Masters of Clinical Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), as well as previous studies in psychology at Macquarie University (MQ) and the Australian College of Applied Psychology (ACAP). She has an interest in public health, having completed research on gambling and drug addictions.
(02) 8105 5765 View (02) 8105 5765
Photo of Rosette Rouhana, Counsellor, PACFA
Rosette Rouhana
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Welcome! I am a registered Arts Therapist, committed to supporting individuals in their health and wellbeing journey. Arts Therapy offers you an expressive language that can be used alongside talk therapy, or as your sole form of communication within the therapy space, and can be a powerful tool in finding new ways to make meaning of the concerns or challenges you may be faced with. I provide a person-centred, integrative and trauma-informed approach to adults facing challenges with their mental health and wellbeing, grief and loss, general anxiety disorders and depression.
Welcome! I am a registered Arts Therapist, committed to supporting individuals in their health and wellbeing journey. Arts Therapy offers you an expressive language that can be used alongside talk therapy, or as your sole form of communication within the therapy space, and can be a powerful tool in finding new ways to make meaning of the concerns or challenges you may be faced with. I provide a person-centred, integrative and trauma-informed approach to adults facing challenges with their mental health and wellbeing, grief and loss, general anxiety disorders and depression.
(02) 8105 5774 View (02) 8105 5774
Photo of Christine Marie Trajkovska, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Christine Marie Trajkovska
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Christine Marie Trajkovska is a compassionate and dedicated counsellor who is committed to guiding individuals on their journey of healing and self-discovery. As a registered member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), Christine provides professional and ethical care to her clients. She works with adults and teenagers from diverse backgrounds, creating a safe, respectful, and supportive space where they can explore their emotions, challenges, and personal growth. Individuals are supported in connecting with their inner selves through body awareness, self-reflection, and intuitive exploration.
Christine Marie Trajkovska is a compassionate and dedicated counsellor who is committed to guiding individuals on their journey of healing and self-discovery. As a registered member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA), Christine provides professional and ethical care to her clients. She works with adults and teenagers from diverse backgrounds, creating a safe, respectful, and supportive space where they can explore their emotions, challenges, and personal growth. Individuals are supported in connecting with their inner selves through body awareness, self-reflection, and intuitive exploration.
(02) 7501 1300 View (02) 7501 1300
Photo of Mark Micelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Mark Micelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
You might be starting to feel like something is off, or you're not able to be your true self. Like life is becoming too complex or overwhelming to cope with. You might notice changes in your relationships with loved ones, co-workers, or friends, accompanied with feeling less motivated, connected, or present than you once were. You may have tried turning to the things that once brought you joy, but found limited success and are left feeling burnt out and stuck. You might be able to picture what a balanced life looks like, but struggle with creating real change.
You might be starting to feel like something is off, or you're not able to be your true self. Like life is becoming too complex or overwhelming to cope with. You might notice changes in your relationships with loved ones, co-workers, or friends, accompanied with feeling less motivated, connected, or present than you once were. You may have tried turning to the things that once brought you joy, but found limited success and are left feeling burnt out and stuck. You might be able to picture what a balanced life looks like, but struggle with creating real change.
(02) 7501 1967 View (02) 7501 1967
Photo of Anthony Colantuono, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Anthony Colantuono
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Counselling sessions with me are non-judgmental, kind, empathic and confidential. I utilise Medicare approved focused psychological strategies and recovery-based principles. This includes, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectic Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma informed principles, Interpersonal Psychotherapy and EMDR. A Counsellor should be appropriately qualified, genuine and authentic to facilitate a therapeutic alliance which should help you with moving forward with life. Working with the mind's plasticity takes due care and skill. I strictly adhere to the AASW code of ethics.
Counselling sessions with me are non-judgmental, kind, empathic and confidential. I utilise Medicare approved focused psychological strategies and recovery-based principles. This includes, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectic Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma informed principles, Interpersonal Psychotherapy and EMDR. A Counsellor should be appropriately qualified, genuine and authentic to facilitate a therapeutic alliance which should help you with moving forward with life. Working with the mind's plasticity takes due care and skill. I strictly adhere to the AASW code of ethics.
(02) 9538 7967 View (02) 9538 7967
Photo of Amina Hallak, Counsellor
Amina Hallak
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in the counselling field. I have specialised in marriage counselling, family therapy, anxiety and depression and teenage counselling. I have also had a lot of experience with issues arising within families in the Islamic community. I have chosen to focus on women’s mindfulness, specifically because Islam emphasises the value of a woman and the importance of them being treated with respect, not being taken advantage of due to the vulnerability. Islam also conveys the rights of women, supporting them in seeking counselling in a time of need..
I am a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in the counselling field. I have specialised in marriage counselling, family therapy, anxiety and depression and teenage counselling. I have also had a lot of experience with issues arising within families in the Islamic community. I have chosen to focus on women’s mindfulness, specifically because Islam emphasises the value of a woman and the importance of them being treated with respect, not being taken advantage of due to the vulnerability. Islam also conveys the rights of women, supporting them in seeking counselling in a time of need..
(02) 8766 0476 View (02) 8766 0476
Photo of Alena Piccolruaz, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Alena Piccolruaz
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
(02) 9159 6930 View (02) 9159 6930

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Careena Cook, Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Careena Cook
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I work with individuals with many types of experiences: childhood trauma, abuse and neglect, anxiety, panic, chronic pain, chronic illness, 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.
I work with individuals with many types of experiences: childhood trauma, abuse and neglect, anxiety, panic, chronic pain, chronic illness, 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 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 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 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 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 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.