Chronic Pain Counselling in Mid North Coast, NSW

Photo of Donna-Marie Thompson, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Donna-Marie Thompson
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
, change in/loss of job, new health diagnoses, stage-of-life transitions, relationship breakdown, retirement) - Anxiety, panic or stress - Support in adjusting to later-in-life identification of neurodivergence (Autistics, ADHDers or AuDHDers) - Trauma - Chronic pain management - Recovering from domestic violence - Insomnia
In addition to her clinical psychology training and experience, Dee has gained much life experience and has developed knowledge, strategies and life-skills that she has personally incorported into her own self-care and has shared with her clients to support managing the inevitable challenges that arise throughout our different life stages.
, change in/loss of job, new health diagnoses, stage-of-life transitions, relationship breakdown, retirement) - Anxiety, panic or stress - Support in adjusting to later-in-life identification of neurodivergence (Autistics, ADHDers or AuDHDers) - Trauma - Chronic pain management - Recovering from domestic violence - Insomnia
In addition to her clinical psychology training and experience, Dee has gained much life experience and has developed knowledge, strategies and life-skills that she has personally incorported into her own self-care and has shared with her clients to support managing the inevitable challenges that arise throughout our different life stages.
Photo of Dr Beulah Joseph, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Beulah Joseph
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450
I am an ally of diversity and inclusion and work with adult clients experiencing relationship difficulties, living with chronic pain/illness, transitions and adjustments (e.g., journey/transition to parenthood), stress management, gender and cultural identity, self-esteem, trauma, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, work/life balance issues.
I am a registered psychologist, endorsed organisational psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society. I partner with people from all walks and stages of life who are seeking psychological growth and would like assistance in improving their mental health.
I am an ally of diversity and inclusion and work with adult clients experiencing relationship difficulties, living with chronic pain/illness, transitions and adjustments (e.g., journey/transition to parenthood), stress management, gender and cultural identity, self-esteem, trauma, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, work/life balance issues.
I am a registered psychologist, endorsed organisational psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society. I partner with people from all walks and stages of life who are seeking psychological growth and would like assistance in improving their mental health.
(03) 9000 0896 View (03) 9000 0896
Photo of Catherine O'Leary - first things first counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
first things first counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Online Only
I am an experienced trauma-&IFS-informed therapist. I work well with people who are ready to do 'the work'. I briefly bring strategies that can be useful to your everyday life initially, relying on modalities such as mindfulness and polyvagal theory, before moving into deeper work based in Internal Family Systems (IFS), if and when the time is right. I assist/guide you to reveal and heal the parts of you that carry thoughts, feelings and behaviours that no longer serve you. It is not always doom and gloom. We work together light-heartedly to safely reveal your unconscious motivations and inner strength, towards lasting healing.
I am an experienced trauma-&IFS-informed therapist. I work well with people who are ready to do 'the work'. I briefly bring strategies that can be useful to your everyday life initially, relying on modalities such as mindfulness and polyvagal theory, before moving into deeper work based in Internal Family Systems (IFS), if and when the time is right. I assist/guide you to reveal and heal the parts of you that carry thoughts, feelings and behaviours that no longer serve you. It is not always doom and gloom. We work together light-heartedly to safely reveal your unconscious motivations and inner strength, towards lasting healing.
(02) 9100 0725 View (02) 9100 0725
Photo of Gabrielle Gawne-Kelnar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Gabrielle Gawne-Kelnar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Grafton, NSW 2460
I'm a counsellor, psychotherapist and social work therapist with over 15 years of experience and extensive professional training. Guided by your life and preferences, together we can draw from many different therapy modalities, and work holistically to uncover and deepen your strengths. We will discover and enrich the values that really matter to you, and that can help you navigate your life with more meaning. I can share helpful strategies to support you, your child and family through challenging times. Together, we'll unearth the answers and experience you already hold within you, so you can walk toward healing and hope again.
I'm a counsellor, psychotherapist and social work therapist with over 15 years of experience and extensive professional training. Guided by your life and preferences, together we can draw from many different therapy modalities, and work holistically to uncover and deepen your strengths. We will discover and enrich the values that really matter to you, and that can help you navigate your life with more meaning. I can share helpful strategies to support you, your child and family through challenging times. Together, we'll unearth the answers and experience you already hold within you, so you can walk toward healing and hope again.
(02) 6422 6265 View (02) 6422 6265
Photo of Alena Piccolruaz, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Alena Piccolruaz
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Taree, NSW 2430
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
Photo of Robert M Curtis - Learning Curves Psychological Consultancy, Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Learning Curves Psychological Consultancy
Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Taree, NSW 2430
There are times in life when we are not at our best. We find ourselves without the energy and insight into how to make it right again. Your psychologist will work with you in a safe and respectful way, helping you to reconnect with inner resources and values that will enable you to make meaning of your life journey and once more step forward with purpose and enjoyment.
There are times in life when we are not at our best. We find ourselves without the energy and insight into how to make it right again. Your psychologist will work with you in a safe and respectful way, helping you to reconnect with inner resources and values that will enable you to make meaning of your life journey and once more step forward with purpose and enjoyment.
(02) 5564 4097 View (02) 5564 4097
Photo of Denise Leigh, Counsellor, PACFA
Denise Leigh
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Port Macquarie, NSW 2444
I believe that we can all lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, regardless of, and in spite of our circumstances, background, abilities, diagnoses or age. My aim to help you find your purpose, and uncover the significance of your life. It is a joy is to assist clients of all ages and backgrounds, on their individual and uniquely crafted journey towards new possibilities. I use a range of counselling and psychotherapy techniques including some creative therapies.
I believe that we can all lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, regardless of, and in spite of our circumstances, background, abilities, diagnoses or age. My aim to help you find your purpose, and uncover the significance of your life. It is a joy is to assist clients of all ages and backgrounds, on their individual and uniquely crafted journey towards new possibilities. I use a range of counselling and psychotherapy techniques including some creative therapies.
(02) 8188 3934 View (02) 8188 3934
Photo of Dr Sandra Darmanin, Psychologist, PsychD, MACPA
Dr Sandra Darmanin
Psychologist, PsychD, MACPA
Serves Area
Providing clinical and professional leadership to the Clinical Director and Psychologists in delivering individualised care •Delivering specialised psychological therapies for service users from all professional levels, including CEOs and Senior Executives, from diverse industries, such as healthcare, finance, banking, and advertising. Have been nominated and awarded schema focused psychologist of the year by the global mental health awards
Providing clinical and professional leadership to the Clinical Director and Psychologists in delivering individualised care •Delivering specialised psychological therapies for service users from all professional levels, including CEOs and Senior Executives, from diverse industries, such as healthcare, finance, banking, and advertising. Have been nominated and awarded schema focused psychologist of the year by the global mental health awards
(02) 8074 1629 View (02) 8074 1629
Photo of Kim O'Donnell, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Kim O'Donnell
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The one constant we all share, regardless of our gender, wealth, race, location or religious beliefs is that we will spend our life in our body. This will also be one of the most confronting, challenging and potentially beautiful relationships we'll ever experience. Can we fully embrace our body? Can we come to terms with the social and cultural factors surrounding our body and, when the time comes to leave our body, will we do so with love and gratitude for how it helped us to connect with ourselves and others? Let's explore those questions together.
The one constant we all share, regardless of our gender, wealth, race, location or religious beliefs is that we will spend our life in our body. This will also be one of the most confronting, challenging and potentially beautiful relationships we'll ever experience. Can we fully embrace our body? Can we come to terms with the social and cultural factors surrounding our body and, when the time comes to leave our body, will we do so with love and gratitude for how it helped us to connect with ourselves and others? Let's explore those questions together.
(07) 3050 0663 View (07) 3050 0663
Photo of Michele Chaseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Michele Chaseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Women and men with illness related to psychological distress or trauma often represent a demographic that experiences complex, intertwined challenges, where physical health issues are closely linked to emotional and psychological well-being. This group typically includes people in their 40s to 60s, many of whom are navigating significant life transitions, such as menopause, caregiving responsibilities, or changes in career or family dynamics. These transitions can exacerbate underlying emotional pain, especially when combined with a history of trauma or unresolved psychological distress and can lead to chronic illnesses.
Women and men with illness related to psychological distress or trauma often represent a demographic that experiences complex, intertwined challenges, where physical health issues are closely linked to emotional and psychological well-being. This group typically includes people in their 40s to 60s, many of whom are navigating significant life transitions, such as menopause, caregiving responsibilities, or changes in career or family dynamics. These transitions can exacerbate underlying emotional pain, especially when combined with a history of trauma or unresolved psychological distress and can lead to chronic illnesses.
(02) 5926 2307 View (02) 5926 2307
Photo of Nicolle Griffin, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Nicolle Griffin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Very Helpful Chats offers ADHD & Autism assessments, mental health treatment, counselling, occupational therapy, ADHD coaching, and social-therapeutic groups to the neurodivergent community. We are an online telehealth-only service. Our team is made up of neurodivergent, neuro-affirming, gender diverse, and queer/LGBTIQA+ health professionals.
Very Helpful Chats offers ADHD & Autism assessments, mental health treatment, counselling, occupational therapy, ADHD coaching, and social-therapeutic groups to the neurodivergent community. We are an online telehealth-only service. Our team is made up of neurodivergent, neuro-affirming, gender diverse, and queer/LGBTIQA+ health professionals.
(02) 9100 0205 View (02) 9100 0205
Photo of Erwin Garth Webb - Erwin Webb Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Erwin Webb Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Bringing over a decade of diverse counselling experience to the table, I specialize in addressing a wide range of concerns, with a particular focus on family work, couples therapyI and trauma. My therapeutic toolbox includes evidence-based approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems Therapy. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, I guide individuals, couples and families towards understanding, growth and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Let's work together to build and strengthen what matters most; you and your loved ones.
Bringing over a decade of diverse counselling experience to the table, I specialize in addressing a wide range of concerns, with a particular focus on family work, couples therapyI and trauma. My therapeutic toolbox includes evidence-based approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems Therapy. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, I guide individuals, couples and families towards understanding, growth and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Let's work together to build and strengthen what matters most; you and your loved ones.
(02) 5657 0829 View (02) 5657 0829
Photo of Natasha Kiemel-Incorvaia, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Natasha Kiemel-Incorvaia
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
With over 9 years experience as a psychologist I am skilled at combining a range of trauma (e.g. EMDR), body-based (e.g. somatic) and cognitive based therapies to support my clients holistically. This includes the vagus nerve and gut. I can support you with anxiety, stress, depression, PTSD, mindset, motivation, study, career, relationships, friendships, pregnancy, post-partum, tic disorders and more. My service is a telehealth ONLY service that is streamlined to meet your needs and fit around your busy schedule. I also offer online course options to help support your nervous system if your not your not quite ready to start therapy.
With over 9 years experience as a psychologist I am skilled at combining a range of trauma (e.g. EMDR), body-based (e.g. somatic) and cognitive based therapies to support my clients holistically. This includes the vagus nerve and gut. I can support you with anxiety, stress, depression, PTSD, mindset, motivation, study, career, relationships, friendships, pregnancy, post-partum, tic disorders and more. My service is a telehealth ONLY service that is streamlined to meet your needs and fit around your busy schedule. I also offer online course options to help support your nervous system if your not your not quite ready to start therapy.
(02) 9100 0843 View (02) 9100 0843
Photo of Roza Hammon, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Roza Hammon
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi, nice to meet you and welcome :) Finding the right therapist is a journey, and I’m here to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive space for adolescents and adults. Whether you're navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I’m here to walk alongside you with warmth, understanding, and evidence-based strategies that are helpful for mental wellbeing. I offer private sessions, sessions for people with Mental Health Care Plan from GP, DVA cardholders, WorkCover (QLD, NSW, VIC), and NDIS participants (self- or plan-managed). I also offer limited bulk-billing sessions to eligible clients.
Hi, nice to meet you and welcome :) Finding the right therapist is a journey, and I’m here to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive space for adolescents and adults. Whether you're navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I’m here to walk alongside you with warmth, understanding, and evidence-based strategies that are helpful for mental wellbeing. I offer private sessions, sessions for people with Mental Health Care Plan from GP, DVA cardholders, WorkCover (QLD, NSW, VIC), and NDIS participants (self- or plan-managed). I also offer limited bulk-billing sessions to eligible clients.
(08) 7666 2681 View (08) 7666 2681
Photo of Sujata Khatri, Credentialed Mental Health Nurse
Sujata Khatri
Credentialed Mental Health Nurse
Serves Area
Sujata Khatri is a highly skilled Psychotherapist and Mental Health Nurse who embraces a holistic mind-body approach to therapy, recognising how our thoughts often restrict our perspectives and disconnect us from the insight of our bodies. Sujata's therapeutic approach fosters mindfulness, self-discovery, self-compassion and transformative change by bringing the unconscious aspects of ourselves into conscious awareness.
Sujata Khatri is a highly skilled Psychotherapist and Mental Health Nurse who embraces a holistic mind-body approach to therapy, recognising how our thoughts often restrict our perspectives and disconnect us from the insight of our bodies. Sujata's therapeutic approach fosters mindfulness, self-discovery, self-compassion and transformative change by bringing the unconscious aspects of ourselves into conscious awareness.
(02) 9100 0231 View (02) 9100 0231
Photo of Bonnie Beazley - Bonnie Beazley-Somatic Experiencing & IFS Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bonnie Beazley-Somatic Experiencing & IFS Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience in providing counselling and psychotherapy for people with a broad range of emotional health issues. I have started to work with trauma and cross-cultural mental health since 2007. I work as a senior counsellor in a community organisation while offering therapies in my private practice in Fremantle & online. My approach is non-judgmental, person-centred and trauma-informed. I embrace all forms of diversity. I take a holistic, integrative and embodied approach, attending to the connection of mind, body and Spirit. I integrate the various therapeutic modalities to meet the needs and nature of clients
I have extensive experience in providing counselling and psychotherapy for people with a broad range of emotional health issues. I have started to work with trauma and cross-cultural mental health since 2007. I work as a senior counsellor in a community organisation while offering therapies in my private practice in Fremantle & online. My approach is non-judgmental, person-centred and trauma-informed. I embrace all forms of diversity. I take a holistic, integrative and embodied approach, attending to the connection of mind, body and Spirit. I integrate the various therapeutic modalities to meet the needs and nature of clients
(08) 6206 8971 View (08) 6206 8971
Photo of Georgia J MacNevin, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Georgia J MacNevin
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Eungai Creek, NSW 2441
Not accepting new clients
I’m a warm, compassionate, and open-hearted Clinical Psychologist with 9 years experience in private practice. I believe in creating a collaborative, sustainable relationship with clients in order to help people feel safe to open up, overcome their struggles and create a rich, full, meaningful life. My work honours individuals unique experiences and innate capacity to heal, resourcing clients with a range of evidence based modalities. I work with a broad range of concerns including anxiety and panic attacks, stress management, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), complex trauma, depression, and family/relationship issues.
I’m a warm, compassionate, and open-hearted Clinical Psychologist with 9 years experience in private practice. I believe in creating a collaborative, sustainable relationship with clients in order to help people feel safe to open up, overcome their struggles and create a rich, full, meaningful life. My work honours individuals unique experiences and innate capacity to heal, resourcing clients with a range of evidence based modalities. I work with a broad range of concerns including anxiety and panic attacks, stress management, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), complex trauma, depression, and family/relationship issues.
(02) 5502 7216 View (02) 5502 7216

Online Therapists

Jason Newcombe
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Armidale, NSW 2350
(02) 5701 5315 View (02) 5701 5315

See more therapy options for Mid North Coast

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.