Chronic Illness Psychologists and Therapists in Narrabeen, NSW

Photo of Holly Eva Ratajec, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Holly Eva Ratajec
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Many of the people I work with feel overwhelmed, burnt out, stuck, misunderstood, or exhausted from trying to manage things on their own. I commonly support people experiencing anxiety, low mood, trauma-related difficulties, psychosis, chronic pain, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), cognitive and memory concerns, traumatic brain injury (TBI), neurodevelopmental conditions, and disability-related challenges. My approach is personalised, collaborative, and evidence-based, with a focus on improving day-to-day functioning and helping clients develop practical strategies for meaningful and sustainable change.
Many of the people I work with feel overwhelmed, burnt out, stuck, misunderstood, or exhausted from trying to manage things on their own. I commonly support people experiencing anxiety, low mood, trauma-related difficulties, psychosis, chronic pain, Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), cognitive and memory concerns, traumatic brain injury (TBI), neurodevelopmental conditions, and disability-related challenges. My approach is personalised, collaborative, and evidence-based, with a focus on improving day-to-day functioning and helping clients develop practical strategies for meaningful and sustainable change.
0493 907 572 View 0493 907 572
Photo of Eva Gregory, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Eva Gregory
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Eva supports adults and adolescents (aged 16+) who wish to improve mental wellbeing, including people experiencing depression, anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Personality Disorders, complex trauma, chronic stress and neurodivergence. Eva has a specific interest in perinatal mental health, and supports people, parents, and infants through infertility, family planning, pregnancy grief and loss, birth trauma, and pregnancy / postpartum challenges. This includes antenatal depression and anxiety, postnatal depression and anxiety and perinatal OCD.
Eva supports adults and adolescents (aged 16+) who wish to improve mental wellbeing, including people experiencing depression, anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Personality Disorders, complex trauma, chronic stress and neurodivergence. Eva has a specific interest in perinatal mental health, and supports people, parents, and infants through infertility, family planning, pregnancy grief and loss, birth trauma, and pregnancy / postpartum challenges. This includes antenatal depression and anxiety, postnatal depression and anxiety and perinatal OCD.
0481 308 742 View 0481 308 742
Photo of Elizabeth Gray, Psychologist, MSc, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Elizabeth Gray
Psychologist, MSc, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Serves Area
Elizabeth Gray, (Liz) is the only Certified Gottman Method Couples Therapist on the Northern Beaches Sydney. Liz has been a Psychologist for 24 years, (10 of those in private practice) and has worked in a range of settings, including Macquarie University, 'Open Colleges AUS', Hospital and Prison Services, (UK). Liz hails from the sunny UK, and has fulfilled a childhood dream of living in Australia. Liz has many long term clients, and is also happy to see clients who just need a few sessions to get back on track in life! Liz sees solo clients and couples. Gottman method Couples Therapy is a research based approach to couples.
Elizabeth Gray, (Liz) is the only Certified Gottman Method Couples Therapist on the Northern Beaches Sydney. Liz has been a Psychologist for 24 years, (10 of those in private practice) and has worked in a range of settings, including Macquarie University, 'Open Colleges AUS', Hospital and Prison Services, (UK). Liz hails from the sunny UK, and has fulfilled a childhood dream of living in Australia. Liz has many long term clients, and is also happy to see clients who just need a few sessions to get back on track in life! Liz sees solo clients and couples. Gottman method Couples Therapy is a research based approach to couples.
0423 786 257 View 0423 786 257
Photo of Tanja Rose Limnios - Thinkahead, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Thinkahead
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Are you suffering a mental health condition? Are you struggling dealing with your childs behaviour or simply need an assessment for learning difficulties/ADHD/ASD? You may simply be feeling a little lost with little direction and clarity. If this is you, then make a change today and reach out and speak to one of our clinicians. We use a multidisciplinary approach and have a team of Psychologists, Occupational Therapist, Behaviour Therapists, Speech Pathologists, Art Therapists, Learning/ Remedial Support Teachers, Physiotherapists. We see NDIS, AccessPlus, Medicare, WC, CTP, VS, EAP clients
Are you suffering a mental health condition? Are you struggling dealing with your childs behaviour or simply need an assessment for learning difficulties/ADHD/ASD? You may simply be feeling a little lost with little direction and clarity. If this is you, then make a change today and reach out and speak to one of our clinicians. We use a multidisciplinary approach and have a team of Psychologists, Occupational Therapist, Behaviour Therapists, Speech Pathologists, Art Therapists, Learning/ Remedial Support Teachers, Physiotherapists. We see NDIS, AccessPlus, Medicare, WC, CTP, VS, EAP clients
(02) 9053 4507 View (02) 9053 4507

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Gaby Browarczyk, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Gaby Browarczyk
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I am passionate about supporting thriving, connection and personal growth. Utilizing creative, reflective and trauma informed practices together we work to support positive change in life’s most difficult and complex circumstances. Working in the here and now with what emerges in the therapeutic relationship we discover and uncover new awareness's. Some people don't like being in closed rooms and some enjoy connecting to nature ask me about my walk and talk session for grounding and re-energizing, clearing the mind of rumination, improve circulation, practice deep breathing, relieve body tension, regulate moods and decrease anxiety.
I am passionate about supporting thriving, connection and personal growth. Utilizing creative, reflective and trauma informed practices together we work to support positive change in life’s most difficult and complex circumstances. Working in the here and now with what emerges in the therapeutic relationship we discover and uncover new awareness's. Some people don't like being in closed rooms and some enjoy connecting to nature ask me about my walk and talk session for grounding and re-energizing, clearing the mind of rumination, improve circulation, practice deep breathing, relieve body tension, regulate moods and decrease anxiety.
(08) 6490 9056 View (08) 6490 9056
Photo of Toni Leemen, Psychotherapist
Toni Leemen
Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
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 Alison Whitwood, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Alison Whitwood
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Ashfield, NSW 2131
They may be navigating trauma, addiction recovery, chronic illness, burnout, early family experiences, or anxiety that feels deeper than stress management alone.
My work integrates talk therapy, somatic approaches, nervous system regulation, and symbolic work such as Sandplay (in person). I also understand the connection between emotional and physical wellbeing, particularly for clients living with chronic illness. Sessions are personalised, practical, and tailored to your needs.
They may be navigating trauma, addiction recovery, chronic illness, burnout, early family experiences, or anxiety that feels deeper than stress management alone.
My work integrates talk therapy, somatic approaches, nervous system regulation, and symbolic work such as Sandplay (in person). I also understand the connection between emotional and physical wellbeing, particularly for clients living with chronic illness. Sessions are personalised, practical, and tailored to your needs.
(02) 8261 0492 View (02) 8261 0492
Photo of Sarah Traynor, Social Worker, AASW
Sarah Traynor
Social Worker, AASW
Parramatta, NSW 2150
I am an accredited social worker with 24 years of experience working across Sydney. I have experience working for NGOs, and State and Federal Government agencies in counselling, community development, case management, disaster recovery, group work and delivering training. I enjoy engaging with diverse individuals and families at varied stages of life, providing therapeutic intervention, and working towards positive change. I am available to provide a variety of support services to assist individuals with reaching their goals. I use talk therapy and creative therapy techniques and a strengths based approach to work towards change.
I am an accredited social worker with 24 years of experience working across Sydney. I have experience working for NGOs, and State and Federal Government agencies in counselling, community development, case management, disaster recovery, group work and delivering training. I enjoy engaging with diverse individuals and families at varied stages of life, providing therapeutic intervention, and working towards positive change. I am available to provide a variety of support services to assist individuals with reaching their goals. I use talk therapy and creative therapy techniques and a strengths based approach to work towards change.
(02) 7804 4770 View (02) 7804 4770
Photo of Luke Wright, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Luke Wright
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Baulkham Hills, NSW 2153
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Board Approved Supervisor with over 11 years of experience treating complex psychological and health related conditions. I specialize in treating conditions related to chronic pain/ illness, trauma and psychological or physical injury within the workplace. I am a compassionate, non-judgmental and validating clinician who strives to facilitate a therapy environment where my clients can feel relaxed, understood and leave each session with new insights or skills to face life’s challenges.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Board Approved Supervisor with over 11 years of experience treating complex psychological and health related conditions. I specialize in treating conditions related to chronic pain/ illness, trauma and psychological or physical injury within the workplace. I am a compassionate, non-judgmental and validating clinician who strives to facilitate a therapy environment where my clients can feel relaxed, understood and leave each session with new insights or skills to face life’s challenges.
(02) 8609 3742 View (02) 8609 3742
Photo of Jessica Cove - Jessica Cove Holistic Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Jessica Cove Holistic Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
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
Kim Brauer offers a compassionate, evidence based, and culturally sensitive approach to therapy, empowering clients to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and self-compassion. Kim integrates evidence-based practices with a deep commitment to holistic care. Her wellness-based approach supports individuals in achieving emotional, physical, intellectual, occupational, spiritual, and social well-being. Kim supports clients foster personal growth, enhance self-awareness, and create meaningful, sustainable life changes.
Kim Brauer offers a compassionate, evidence based, and culturally sensitive approach to therapy, empowering clients to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and self-compassion. Kim integrates evidence-based practices with a deep commitment to holistic care. Her wellness-based approach supports individuals in achieving emotional, physical, intellectual, occupational, spiritual, and social well-being. Kim supports clients foster personal growth, enhance self-awareness, and create meaningful, sustainable life changes.
(02) 9538 7913 View (02) 9538 7913
Photo of Christine Theodossiou, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Christine Theodossiou
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Hi, my name is Christine (she/her) and I live on Gadigal land. I’m an experienced AHPRA registered clinical psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society and the EMDR Association of Australia. I have extensive experience across drug and alcohol, complex mental health and trauma, and chronic pain and medical conditions. I offer individualised, person-centred therapy that affords you the greatest agency by prioritising collaboration, combining your self-wisdom with a variety of evidence-based psychological treatments.
Hi, my name is Christine (she/her) and I live on Gadigal land. I’m an experienced AHPRA registered clinical psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society and the EMDR Association of Australia. I have extensive experience across drug and alcohol, complex mental health and trauma, and chronic pain and medical conditions. I offer individualised, person-centred therapy that affords you the greatest agency by prioritising collaboration, combining your self-wisdom with a variety of evidence-based psychological treatments.
(02) 9159 6811 View (02) 9159 6811
Photo of Esther Davis - Esther Davis Psychology, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Esther Davis Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a fellow human, I deeply understand that pain and suffering, although normal, can be exquisitely hard. I provide a safe space for you to explore the struggles in your life and how your backstory affects you today. Together we can discover and establish the story you want to lead going forward; one in which you can be at rest and flourish.
As a fellow human, I deeply understand that pain and suffering, although normal, can be exquisitely hard. I provide a safe space for you to explore the struggles in your life and how your backstory affects you today. Together we can discover and establish the story you want to lead going forward; one in which you can be at rest and flourish.
(02) 4214 4075 View (02) 4214 4075
Photo of Gaye Mallinson, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Gaye Mallinson
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Somatic Psychotherapies offers Clinical Supervision (+SOS), Counselling (talk & somatic based) & Trauma Informed Yoga Therapy to Child/Youth/Adult, Couples & Families with availability for Weekday & Weekend sessions Online via (Video/Voicelink) across Australia, New Zealand & Worldwide. I can utilise various assessments when appropriate to measure the severity of a specific problem, as well as determining your progress within therapy. I can also teach many various emotional regulation skills where this may be of benefit for you too. Whatever you are going through, know that there is hope - Let me help you find that hope.
Somatic Psychotherapies offers Clinical Supervision (+SOS), Counselling (talk & somatic based) & Trauma Informed Yoga Therapy to Child/Youth/Adult, Couples & Families with availability for Weekday & Weekend sessions Online via (Video/Voicelink) across Australia, New Zealand & Worldwide. I can utilise various assessments when appropriate to measure the severity of a specific problem, as well as determining your progress within therapy. I can also teach many various emotional regulation skills where this may be of benefit for you too. Whatever you are going through, know that there is hope - Let me help you find that hope.
0459 767 347 View 0459 767 347
Photo of Belinda Jelic, Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Belinda Jelic
Psychologist, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Online Only
I am a Registered Psychologist providing evidence-based psychological support to adults and older adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and complex emotional challenges. I work with individuals experiencing burnout, chronic stress, grief and loss, relationship changes, health-related adjustment, and times where life can feel uncertain or overwhelming. Many people seek support when things begin to feel heavier than usual, or when their usual ways of coping are no longer as effective. My focus is on supporting people to gain clarity, build emotional stability, and develop practical strategies for daily life.
I am a Registered Psychologist providing evidence-based psychological support to adults and older adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and complex emotional challenges. I work with individuals experiencing burnout, chronic stress, grief and loss, relationship changes, health-related adjustment, and times where life can feel uncertain or overwhelming. Many people seek support when things begin to feel heavier than usual, or when their usual ways of coping are no longer as effective. My focus is on supporting people to gain clarity, build emotional stability, and develop practical strategies for daily life.
(02) 4214 4987 View (02) 4214 4987
Photo of Melissa Downey - Lomatia - Telehealth Social Work Australia-Wide, Social Worker, MA, AASW
Lomatia - Telehealth Social Work Australia-Wide
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Online Only
They may be living with chronic illness, disability, or neurodivergence; be LGBTQIA+; be older adults navigating major transitions; or parents carrying their own health challenges.
I'm Mel — a social worker with a Master of Social Work (UTAS) and Bachelor of Psychological Science (CQU). I offer psychosocial support, therapeutic conversations, case management and advocacy via secure telehealth - Australia-wide. My practice is strengths-based, trauma-informed, and draws on my own lived experience of chronic illness and disability.
They may be living with chronic illness, disability, or neurodivergence; be LGBTQIA+; be older adults navigating major transitions; or parents carrying their own health challenges.
I'm Mel — a social worker with a Master of Social Work (UTAS) and Bachelor of Psychological Science (CQU). I offer psychosocial support, therapeutic conversations, case management and advocacy via secure telehealth - Australia-wide. My practice is strengths-based, trauma-informed, and draws on my own lived experience of chronic illness and disability.
(03) 6469 5484 View (03) 6469 5484
Photo of Gun Meskanen Hopkins - Holistic Therapy and Counselling, Social Worker, AMHSW
Holistic Therapy and Counselling
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Gun — an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, trained in Evidence-Based EFT/Tapping, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), ACT for trauma, anxiety, relationships, ADHD and perfectionism, and a Certified Buteyko Breathing Instructor. I specialise in anxiety, trauma, insomnia, chronic pain/illnesses and other health challenges. Offering psychological interventions tailored to your needs and with a Mental Health Care Plan, 10 Medicare rebate sessions per calendar year.
Hi, I’m Gun — an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, trained in Evidence-Based EFT/Tapping, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), ACT for trauma, anxiety, relationships, ADHD and perfectionism, and a Certified Buteyko Breathing Instructor. I specialise in anxiety, trauma, insomnia, chronic pain/illnesses and other health challenges. Offering psychological interventions tailored to your needs and with a Mental Health Care Plan, 10 Medicare rebate sessions per calendar year.
(07) 5240 5771 View (07) 5240 5771
Photo of Bronwyn Bickle, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Bronwyn Bickle
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Bronwyn, and I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM), chronic illness, and neurodivergence – I also 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!
Hi, I'm Bronwyn, and I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM), chronic illness, and neurodivergence – I also 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 Dr Chrissy Antonopoulos, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Chrissy Antonopoulos
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Online Only
I am a psychologist working with people experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, eating and body image concerns, stress/life changes, grief/loss, chronic health conditions, chronic pain, and disability. I have an interest in assessment and experience with Autism, ADHD, learning, and adaptive functioning assessments. I can provide reports for NDIS and education/school plans. I have lived experience of disability and work from an affirming, collaborative and empowering framework. I work with people ages 16 and over and currently only offer Telehealth services.
I am a psychologist working with people experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, eating and body image concerns, stress/life changes, grief/loss, chronic health conditions, chronic pain, and disability. I have an interest in assessment and experience with Autism, ADHD, learning, and adaptive functioning assessments. I can provide reports for NDIS and education/school plans. I have lived experience of disability and work from an affirming, collaborative and empowering framework. I work with people ages 16 and over and currently only offer Telehealth services.
(02) 9053 4329 View (02) 9053 4329
Photo of Zorica Zoe Gruneska - Compassionate Journey (Zoe Gruneska), Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Compassionate Journey (Zoe Gruneska)
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I understand that one needs significant courage to take the first step towards therapy, and therefore I aim to provide a safe environment where you will feel comfortable to openly discuss any issues in a non-judgmental, warm, empathic, and supportive manner. We will explore your current difficulties and invite you to consider what you would like to be different. You will set the direction for our work and I will walk alongside you, as we identify and work on the strategies and actions that support you the best to build the life you want.
I understand that one needs significant courage to take the first step towards therapy, and therefore I aim to provide a safe environment where you will feel comfortable to openly discuss any issues in a non-judgmental, warm, empathic, and supportive manner. We will explore your current difficulties and invite you to consider what you would like to be different. You will set the direction for our work and I will walk alongside you, as we identify and work on the strategies and actions that support you the best to build the life you want.
(03) 7302 8856 View (03) 7302 8856
Chronic Illness Therapists
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.