Chronic Illness Psychologists and Therapists in Newcastle, NSW

Esther Davis Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
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
Kristy Singh
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Would you like to grow in confidence and skill to deepen your connection to your self and the ones you love? Do you want to improve your relationships and wellbeing? If you could benefit from discovering how to be kinder to your self, learning skills like boundaries to improve your relationships or understand and heal from the effects of trauma then I might be the person to help you. Sometimes we need a guide to empower us to explore our inner world and discover tools to help us move forward.
Would you like to grow in confidence and skill to deepen your connection to your self and the ones you love? Do you want to improve your relationships and wellbeing? If you could benefit from discovering how to be kinder to your self, learning skills like boundaries to improve your relationships or understand and heal from the effects of trauma then I might be the person to help you. Sometimes we need a guide to empower us to explore our inner world and discover tools to help us move forward.
(02) 4075 9893 View (02) 4075 9893
Begin Again Therapy
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Newcastle, NSW 2300
Waitlist for new clients
At Begin Again Therapy, we are a team of caring and experienced Newcastle psychologists who recognise the importance of relationships in facilitating healing. We have created a psychology clinic with the intention of prioritising safety, connection and compassion. We endeavour to empower people to step into a place of vulnerability and find the strength to embrace their humanness. Working collaboratively, we select and integrate well-researched approaches based on your unique needs, strengths and resources.
At Begin Again Therapy, we are a team of caring and experienced Newcastle psychologists who recognise the importance of relationships in facilitating healing. We have created a psychology clinic with the intention of prioritising safety, connection and compassion. We endeavour to empower people to step into a place of vulnerability and find the strength to embrace their humanness. Working collaboratively, we select and integrate well-researched approaches based on your unique needs, strengths and resources.
(02) 4058 4013 View (02) 4058 4013
Allira Sazdanoff
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Newcastle, NSW 2300
I am a psychologist, with an approach to therapy that is person-centred and holistic in nature, taking into account the many aspects of the human experience and the influences that shape us. I have experience in assessing and providing therapeutic services to adolescents and adults with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have a special interest in working with complex trauma and dissociation, anxiety, and attachment difficulties. I strive to create safety for individuals to explore their vulnerabilities and am passionate about supporting clients to reduce suffering, to live authentically, and achieve their goals.
I am a psychologist, with an approach to therapy that is person-centred and holistic in nature, taking into account the many aspects of the human experience and the influences that shape us. I have experience in assessing and providing therapeutic services to adolescents and adults with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have a special interest in working with complex trauma and dissociation, anxiety, and attachment difficulties. I strive to create safety for individuals to explore their vulnerabilities and am passionate about supporting clients to reduce suffering, to live authentically, and achieve their goals.
(02) 4075 3896 View (02) 4075 3896
Bartholomew P Henrick
Psychologist, MAPS
Newcastle, NSW 2300
I work with adults and teenagers with a wide range of presenting problems, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder. I also offer assessments and reporting for legal purposes. I offer a relaxed environment where clients can feel safe and supported.
I work with adults and teenagers with a wide range of presenting problems, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder. I also offer assessments and reporting for legal purposes. I offer a relaxed environment where clients can feel safe and supported.
(02) 4063 1050 View (02) 4063 1050
Grace York
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Newcastle, NSW 2300
Grace is a friendly and approachable psychologist, she is passionate about helping people better understand themselves to navigate life's challenges and joys. Grace loves to work with individuals from all walks of life and values working on the root cause of challenges whenever possible, rather than focusing solely on symptom management. Grace believes in flexibly tailoring therapy to individual needs and has experience with working with trauma, disability, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, neurodiversity, adjustment difficulties, attachment difficulties, family dynamics, stress, social difficulties, and emotional difficulties.
Grace is a friendly and approachable psychologist, she is passionate about helping people better understand themselves to navigate life's challenges and joys. Grace loves to work with individuals from all walks of life and values working on the root cause of challenges whenever possible, rather than focusing solely on symptom management. Grace believes in flexibly tailoring therapy to individual needs and has experience with working with trauma, disability, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, neurodiversity, adjustment difficulties, attachment difficulties, family dynamics, stress, social difficulties, and emotional difficulties.
(02) 4075 9112 View (02) 4075 9112
Chris Butler
Social Worker, AMHSW
Newcastle, NSW 2300
Every person's journey is unique, and I like to understand the background and goals of the people I support to ensure together we create a personalised therapy plan tailored to them. I work with adults, and adolescents and I have a strong interest in supporting people navigating anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, developmental trauma, CTPSD and the myriad of life's challenges. My approach is twofold: I believe in equipping you with immediate tools to cope with present concerns, while also delving into the roots of these issues – be it past events, deep-seated beliefs, or coping mechanisms – to pave the way for a brighter future.
Every person's journey is unique, and I like to understand the background and goals of the people I support to ensure together we create a personalised therapy plan tailored to them. I work with adults, and adolescents and I have a strong interest in supporting people navigating anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, developmental trauma, CTPSD and the myriad of life's challenges. My approach is twofold: I believe in equipping you with immediate tools to cope with present concerns, while also delving into the roots of these issues – be it past events, deep-seated beliefs, or coping mechanisms – to pave the way for a brighter future.
(02) 4071 4541 View (02) 4071 4541
Katie Harris Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, ACA-L2
Online Only
Immediate Availability / Carer Support / Identity, Boundaries and Anxiety. Matched MHCP pricing. I work with those feeling weighed down by the roles they play - the 'strong one', the Carer, or the burnt-out professional. My clients often feel a quiet, heavy resentment they’re afraid to admit aloud, maybe through a caring role changing their relationship, or when the mask of keeping it all together starts to crack, leading to stress, anxiety, or a loss of self. You don't have to keep pretending you have it all under control. Together, we won't just manage your symptoms; we'll uncover the root causes & find a sustainable way forward.
Immediate Availability / Carer Support / Identity, Boundaries and Anxiety. Matched MHCP pricing. I work with those feeling weighed down by the roles they play - the 'strong one', the Carer, or the burnt-out professional. My clients often feel a quiet, heavy resentment they’re afraid to admit aloud, maybe through a caring role changing their relationship, or when the mask of keeping it all together starts to crack, leading to stress, anxiety, or a loss of self. You don't have to keep pretending you have it all under control. Together, we won't just manage your symptoms; we'll uncover the root causes & find a sustainable way forward.
(02) 4071 4173 View (02) 4071 4173
The Counselher
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
The business is designed to break the mood of counselling & therapy services and provide fast immediate access to speak with someone that doesn't require a six-week wait or a personal loan. Empowering people to get back into their life sooner and alleviate the current mental health crisis.
The business is designed to break the mood of counselling & therapy services and provide fast immediate access to speak with someone that doesn't require a six-week wait or a personal loan. Empowering people to get back into their life sooner and alleviate the current mental health crisis.
(03) 4236 3109 View (03) 4236 3109
Beate Warren
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
My ideal clients are adults who have tried talking about it but still feel stuck. They come to me carrying childhood trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, burnout, or chronic stress — often having spent years in talk therapy without lasting change. Many are highly sensitive people who feel deeply and have never quite understood why life feels so heavy. Some are people pleasers who have spent a lifetime putting others first, struggling with boundaries, and losing themselves in the process. I work with them one on one, using Somatic Experiencing to gently help the body release what the mind has been unable to resolve.
My ideal clients are adults who have tried talking about it but still feel stuck. They come to me carrying childhood trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, burnout, or chronic stress — often having spent years in talk therapy without lasting change. Many are highly sensitive people who feel deeply and have never quite understood why life feels so heavy. Some are people pleasers who have spent a lifetime putting others first, struggling with boundaries, and losing themselves in the process. I work with them one on one, using Somatic Experiencing to gently help the body release what the mind has been unable to resolve.
(02) 5501 3071 View (02) 5501 3071
Cody Schmitt
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
Hey there! I am a clinical psychology registrar and registered psychologist. I specialise in OCD, Panic, Social Anxiety, Phobias, Generalised Anxiety, PTSD, trauma-related challenges, and much more. My style is warm, calm, non-judgemental, and easy to talk to - with a bit of humour when it helps. If its something you're interested in, I am also trained to assess and diagnose individuals of all ages with suspected ADHD, Autism, learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), and concerns about cognitive or functional capacity.
Hey there! I am a clinical psychology registrar and registered psychologist. I specialise in OCD, Panic, Social Anxiety, Phobias, Generalised Anxiety, PTSD, trauma-related challenges, and much more. My style is warm, calm, non-judgemental, and easy to talk to - with a bit of humour when it helps. If its something you're interested in, I am also trained to assess and diagnose individuals of all ages with suspected ADHD, Autism, learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), and concerns about cognitive or functional capacity.
(02) 4077 2274 View (02) 4077 2274
Dr Julie-May Brown
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I am an experienced, accredited EMDR and trauma-oriented clinician with extensive expertise in treating clinicians, veterans, and civilians. My approach is ethical, evidence-based, and client-centered, and draws upon a diverse repertoire of specialized skills and advanced training. I am committed to providing a safe, effective, and tailored therapeutic experience to my clients, many of whom are extremely vulnerable, and fearful of engaging with a therapist.
I am an experienced, accredited EMDR and trauma-oriented clinician with extensive expertise in treating clinicians, veterans, and civilians. My approach is ethical, evidence-based, and client-centered, and draws upon a diverse repertoire of specialized skills and advanced training. I am committed to providing a safe, effective, and tailored therapeutic experience to my clients, many of whom are extremely vulnerable, and fearful of engaging with a therapist.
(02) 5502 5009 View (02) 5502 5009
Pip Eve
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a warm and experienced Clinical Psychologist. I enjoy supporting people navigating complex/developmental trauma, anxiety, depression, stress/burnout, life transitions, relationship difficulties, the mind/body connection, chronic health conditions (e.g., chronic pain, cancer, autoimmune, hormonal conditions), and during the perinatal period (fertility concerns/pregnancy/postpartum). Individual telehealth sessions and online meditation groups currently available.
I am a warm and experienced Clinical Psychologist. I enjoy supporting people navigating complex/developmental trauma, anxiety, depression, stress/burnout, life transitions, relationship difficulties, the mind/body connection, chronic health conditions (e.g., chronic pain, cancer, autoimmune, hormonal conditions), and during the perinatal period (fertility concerns/pregnancy/postpartum). Individual telehealth sessions and online meditation groups currently available.
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Belinda Muldoon
Social Worker, AMHSW
Online Only
Many of the people I work with have reached a point where life no longer feels as it once did. They may be living with anxiety, trauma, grief, burnout, relationship difficulties or navigating a significant life transition. Others come with a quiet sense that they have become disconnected from themselves and are seeking greater clarity, meaning and direction. Whatever brings you here, we begin by taking time to understand where you are, what has shaped your journey, and what is calling for your attention. Together we create the conditions that support healing, growth and a way forward that feels authentic and deeply your own.
Many of the people I work with have reached a point where life no longer feels as it once did. They may be living with anxiety, trauma, grief, burnout, relationship difficulties or navigating a significant life transition. Others come with a quiet sense that they have become disconnected from themselves and are seeking greater clarity, meaning and direction. Whatever brings you here, we begin by taking time to understand where you are, what has shaped your journey, and what is calling for your attention. Together we create the conditions that support healing, growth and a way forward that feels authentic and deeply your own.
(02) 5701 1012 View (02) 5701 1012
Guided Hope Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
My name is Melissa, and I’m a credentialed therapist in Australia with 16 years of professional experience. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping clients work through a variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and intimacy-related issues. My approach to therapy is centred on treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I firmly believe in the power of tailoring our sessions to fit your individual needs. My experience extends across a wide range of areas, including addictions, depression, trauma relationship and family issues, self-esteem, and managing stress as a caregiver.
My name is Melissa, and I’m a credentialed therapist in Australia with 16 years of professional experience. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping clients work through a variety of concerns, including stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and intimacy-related issues. My approach to therapy is centred on treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I firmly believe in the power of tailoring our sessions to fit your individual needs. My experience extends across a wide range of areas, including addictions, depression, trauma relationship and family issues, self-esteem, and managing stress as a caregiver.
(03) 4150 1216 View (03) 4150 1216
Jennifer Fisher
Psychologist, MA, MAPS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy working with a range of psychological and emotional concerns. My main area of interest is helping people who are living with an eating disorder. I am passionate about timely and effective support for individuals struggling with eating and body image concerns. In addition to eating disorders, I enjoy working with people who are experiencing different types of anxiety and emotional distress, chronic pain and illness, relationship concerns, grief, loss and adjusting to life changes including parenthood.
I enjoy working with a range of psychological and emotional concerns. My main area of interest is helping people who are living with an eating disorder. I am passionate about timely and effective support for individuals struggling with eating and body image concerns. In addition to eating disorders, I enjoy working with people who are experiencing different types of anxiety and emotional distress, chronic pain and illness, relationship concerns, grief, loss and adjusting to life changes including parenthood.
(02) 4214 8212 View (02) 4214 8212
Dr Lisa Millar
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 22 years of experience in supporting & enhancing the mental health & wellbeing of adults. I work alongside individuals with an empathic, non-judgemental, open & genuine approach. I support each person to navigate & overcome problems, & find the best way forward to achieve their desired therapy outcomes. Your therapy plan is tailored to your individual needs, thus relevant psychological interventions optimise your therapy experience & benefits. We work together towards the positive changes, healing & growth you are seeking so you can experience an enriched, more fulfilling life.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 22 years of experience in supporting & enhancing the mental health & wellbeing of adults. I work alongside individuals with an empathic, non-judgemental, open & genuine approach. I support each person to navigate & overcome problems, & find the best way forward to achieve their desired therapy outcomes. Your therapy plan is tailored to your individual needs, thus relevant psychological interventions optimise your therapy experience & benefits. We work together towards the positive changes, healing & growth you are seeking so you can experience an enriched, more fulfilling life.
(02) 4071 4109 View (02) 4071 4109
Gabriel Heaton
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have experience working with a broad range of concerns from everyday stressors to mood disturbance, anxiety, grief, substance concerns, neurodivergence, trauma, personality vulnerabilities and other complex mental health disorders. I value fostering a collaborative supportive atmosphere where curiosity can develop in order to understand and mobilise present strengths and values in meeting life. I have an interest in how our early experience and relationships inform who we are, and how we relate to others now.
I have experience working with a broad range of concerns from everyday stressors to mood disturbance, anxiety, grief, substance concerns, neurodivergence, trauma, personality vulnerabilities and other complex mental health disorders. I value fostering a collaborative supportive atmosphere where curiosity can develop in order to understand and mobilise present strengths and values in meeting life. I have an interest in how our early experience and relationships inform who we are, and how we relate to others now.
(02) 4077 0514 View (02) 4077 0514
Leigh Murray
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, adjustment and eating disorders, grief, loss, family relationship concerns, and managing chronic illness.
Leigh is a senior psychologist with extensive experience supporting individuals in clinical settings. She is deeply committed to helping people create meaningful change, foster personal growth, and enhance overall wellbeing. Leigh has a particular interest in chronic health issues and eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and disordered eating patterns. She also works extensively with individuals navigating underlying perfectionism and burnout, helping them identify unhelpful patterns, build self-compassion, and restore balance in their lives.
I work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, adjustment and eating disorders, grief, loss, family relationship concerns, and managing chronic illness.
Leigh is a senior psychologist with extensive experience supporting individuals in clinical settings. She is deeply committed to helping people create meaningful change, foster personal growth, and enhance overall wellbeing. Leigh has a particular interest in chronic health issues and eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and disordered eating patterns. She also works extensively with individuals navigating underlying perfectionism and burnout, helping them identify unhelpful patterns, build self-compassion, and restore balance in their lives.
(02) 4012 0155 View (02) 4012 0155
Georgia Gardiner
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I pride myself on being a warm and engaging Psychologist who is passionate about supporting clients to build a deeper and more compassionate understanding of themselves. I aim to create a safe space for individuals to process difficult emotions and to work through difficult past and or current experiences. I hope that I can support my clients to heal from pain and to let go of suffering so that they can move forward in values guided directions.
I pride myself on being a warm and engaging Psychologist who is passionate about supporting clients to build a deeper and more compassionate understanding of themselves. I aim to create a safe space for individuals to process difficult emotions and to work through difficult past and or current experiences. I hope that I can support my clients to heal from pain and to let go of suffering so that they can move forward in values guided directions.
(02) 4058 4739 View (02) 4058 4739

See more therapy options for Newcastle

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.