Chronic Pain Psychologists and Therapists in Petersham, NSW

Photo of Sam Felicity Baran - Sam Baran (Inner Orbit Therapy), Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sam Baran (Inner Orbit Therapy)
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi! I'm Sam (they/them), a queer non-binary therapist. I offer a judgement-free and affirming space for curious and creative people, including those from the neurodiverse, transgender, and LGBTQ+ communities. Together, we can look at hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress, anxiety, and existence with a view of boosting self-esteem and reducing distress. We’ll puzzle out the unique bits that sit at your core and use that understanding to create positive changes in your life and your relationships. My focus is always around making therapy a safe, supportive place where you can embrace and express your authentic self.
Hi! I'm Sam (they/them), a queer non-binary therapist. I offer a judgement-free and affirming space for curious and creative people, including those from the neurodiverse, transgender, and LGBTQ+ communities. Together, we can look at hard stuff around relationships, identity, stress, anxiety, and existence with a view of boosting self-esteem and reducing distress. We’ll puzzle out the unique bits that sit at your core and use that understanding to create positive changes in your life and your relationships. My focus is always around making therapy a safe, supportive place where you can embrace and express your authentic self.
(02) 8000 1501 View (02) 8000 1501
Photo of Patrick Watts, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Patrick Watts
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Patrick works with adults experiencing a diverse range of issues, including low mood and depression, along with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety and phobias. He can also assist with adjustment and moving forward following difficult life events. He strives to bring a warm, compassionate and genuine approach to therapy, and building a supportive relationship is at the heart of his work. His experience means he is well-equipped to support those moving through the challenges of life whilst seeking to build meaning and purpose along the way.
Patrick works with adults experiencing a diverse range of issues, including low mood and depression, along with anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety and phobias. He can also assist with adjustment and moving forward following difficult life events. He strives to bring a warm, compassionate and genuine approach to therapy, and building a supportive relationship is at the heart of his work. His experience means he is well-equipped to support those moving through the challenges of life whilst seeking to build meaning and purpose along the way.
(02) 9100 0206 View (02) 9100 0206
Photo of Lauren O'Donoghue, Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Lauren O'Donoghue
Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Serves Area
I support Queer, Neurodivergent, Chronically ill & Disabled folk, or anyone who may have felt misunderstood in traditional/allistic clinical settings. I integrate my lived experience with professional expertise to support clients navigating AuDHD, burnout, life transitions, relationship or workplace challenges, anxiety, substance use concerns etc. I am honoured to walk alongside my clients helping people to heal hurt, find their spark, cope with suffering, and come home to themselves. My work is grounded in social justice principals, and guided by my values of authenticity, integrity, humour, agency, and joy.
I support Queer, Neurodivergent, Chronically ill & Disabled folk, or anyone who may have felt misunderstood in traditional/allistic clinical settings. I integrate my lived experience with professional expertise to support clients navigating AuDHD, burnout, life transitions, relationship or workplace challenges, anxiety, substance use concerns etc. I am honoured to walk alongside my clients helping people to heal hurt, find their spark, cope with suffering, and come home to themselves. My work is grounded in social justice principals, and guided by my values of authenticity, integrity, humour, agency, and joy.
0403 912 902 View 0403 912 902
Photo of Anne-Marie Taylor - Anne-Marie Taylor - Seen Felt Heard Counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Anne-Marie Taylor - Seen Felt Heard Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected from yourself? Life’s pressures, past experiences, and ongoing responsibilities can make it hard to slow down and feel grounded. Counselling offers a supportive space to pause, reflect, and reconnect. I’m Anne-Marie, a Marrickville-based counsellor and clinical supervisor, offering trauma-informed counselling to adults and parents across the Inner West and greater Sydney. My approach is holistic, inclusive, and deeply personal, recognising the strong connection between mind and body. I offer a warm, safe, and non-judgemental space where you can show up exactly as you are.
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected from yourself? Life’s pressures, past experiences, and ongoing responsibilities can make it hard to slow down and feel grounded. Counselling offers a supportive space to pause, reflect, and reconnect. I’m Anne-Marie, a Marrickville-based counsellor and clinical supervisor, offering trauma-informed counselling to adults and parents across the Inner West and greater Sydney. My approach is holistic, inclusive, and deeply personal, recognising the strong connection between mind and body. I offer a warm, safe, and non-judgemental space where you can show up exactly as you are.
(02) 9100 0780 View (02) 9100 0780
Photo of Maria Simonetta, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Maria Simonetta
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
(02) 8073 9397 View (02) 8073 9397
Photo of Bronwyn Davies Glover - Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
(02) 8074 1609 View (02) 8074 1609

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Arthur David Stabolidis - Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Dr Arthur Stabolidis: The Psychology Suite
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Online Only
Dr Arthur Stabolidis is a Clinical Psychologist who works with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, stress, and life transitions.
Endorsed by The Psychology Board of Australia as a Clinical Psychologist and board approved supervisor, I completed my training through The University of Melbourne and conducted clinical research through The Royal Women’s Hospital.
Dr Arthur Stabolidis is a Clinical Psychologist who works with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, chronic pain, stress, and life transitions.
Endorsed by The Psychology Board of Australia as a Clinical Psychologist and board approved supervisor, I completed my training through The University of Melbourne and conducted clinical research through The Royal Women’s Hospital.
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Photo of Jaen Andrews, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Jaen Andrews
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
I have a particular interest in supporting people with chronic pain/illness, especially helping women and vulva owners rebuild and maintain intimacy following life-changing pain.
I have a gentle, trauma informed approach to counselling and will use a variety of different techniques. I will commonly draw on Emotion Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy and Gottman techniques tailored to your individual situation. I have a special interest in supporting people with chronic pain, particularly women and vulva owners.
I have a particular interest in supporting people with chronic pain/illness, especially helping women and vulva owners rebuild and maintain intimacy following life-changing pain.
I have a gentle, trauma informed approach to counselling and will use a variety of different techniques. I will commonly draw on Emotion Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy and Gottman techniques tailored to your individual situation. I have a special interest in supporting people with chronic pain, particularly women and vulva owners.
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Photo of Josephine Gale - Growth Psychology Consulting, Psychologist, MAPS
Growth Psychology Consulting
Psychologist, MAPS
Liverpool, NSW 2170
We are a team of psychologists in the Liverpool. We see clients for various issues such as but not limited to anxiety, depression , grief, adjustment issues, relationship issues , marriage counselling , self esteem , children, adolescents private clients, workcover, CTP , solicitors reports, immigration reports and business support. We help in guiding you for whatever life changes you are going through.
We are a team of psychologists in the Liverpool. We see clients for various issues such as but not limited to anxiety, depression , grief, adjustment issues, relationship issues , marriage counselling , self esteem , children, adolescents private clients, workcover, CTP , solicitors reports, immigration reports and business support. We help in guiding you for whatever life changes you are going through.
(02) 8880 5183 View (02) 8880 5183
Photo of Lynne Bousfield, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Lynne Bousfield
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
My aim in offering clinical psychological treatment services is to help adults with understanding, managing and resolving their distress and confusion, whether from depression, anxiety, chronic health issues (including chronic pain), relationship difficulties, grief and loss, workplace injuries or adjusting to life stressors.
Psychological intervention can not only assist with mental health issues but can bring more focus and meaning to life, develop more self-understanding and a better relationship with ourselves and with others. We become more self-reliant using treatment interventions that include mindfulness practices and cognitive and behavioural strategies.
My aim in offering clinical psychological treatment services is to help adults with understanding, managing and resolving their distress and confusion, whether from depression, anxiety, chronic health issues (including chronic pain), relationship difficulties, grief and loss, workplace injuries or adjusting to life stressors.
Psychological intervention can not only assist with mental health issues but can bring more focus and meaning to life, develop more self-understanding and a better relationship with ourselves and with others. We become more self-reliant using treatment interventions that include mindfulness practices and cognitive and behavioural strategies.
0408 426 732 View 0408 426 732
Photo of Christine Theodossiou, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Christine Theodossiou
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
I have extensive experience across drug and alcohol, complex mental health and trauma, and chronic pain and medical conditions.
My strengths lie in creating a safe space that allows us to curiously explore ways to adjust to life’s many challenges. I find joy in witnessing people’s “a-ha” moments and nurturing the emotions that may accompany these insights.
I have extensive experience across drug and alcohol, complex mental health and trauma, and chronic pain and medical conditions.
My strengths lie in creating a safe space that allows us to curiously explore ways to adjust to life’s many challenges. I find joy in witnessing people’s “a-ha” moments and nurturing the emotions that may accompany these insights.
(02) 9159 6811 View (02) 9159 6811
Photo of Holly Eva Ratajec, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Holly Eva Ratajec
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Newport, NSW 2106
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.
The Newport clinic offers a calm and private environment with dedicated client parking and accessible entry. Appointments are also available via telehealth, walk-and-talk sessions, and outreach/home visits depending on client needs.
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.
The Newport clinic offers a calm and private environment with dedicated client parking and accessible entry. Appointments are also available via telehealth, walk-and-talk sessions, and outreach/home visits depending on client needs.
0493 907 572 View 0493 907 572
Photo of Hamid Hussein Waqar, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Hamid Hussein Waqar
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Liverpool, NSW 2170
At Waqar Psychology, we understand how difficult it can be to cope with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health issues. Our team of experienced psychologists and therapists are dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking help. We offer a range of evidence-based therapies to help our clients overcome their struggles and thrive in their daily lives. Our goal is to empower our clients to become the best versions of themselves, so they can face life’s challenges with confidence.
At Waqar Psychology, we understand how difficult it can be to cope with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health issues. Our team of experienced psychologists and therapists are dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking help. We offer a range of evidence-based therapies to help our clients overcome their struggles and thrive in their daily lives. Our goal is to empower our clients to become the best versions of themselves, so they can face life’s challenges with confidence.
(02) 8105 6643 View (02) 8105 6643
Photo of Karen Grant, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Karen Grant
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
You may be worried about the future, experiencing chronic pain, or troubled by a difficult relationship.
Using proven therapies and a kind, practical approach, I can help you understand and overcome barriers to enjoying life. You can expect from me: To be heard completely and without judgement; To gain insight and understanding; To be supported with empathy and connection; and, To experience positive change.
You may be worried about the future, experiencing chronic pain, or troubled by a difficult relationship.
Using proven therapies and a kind, practical approach, I can help you understand and overcome barriers to enjoying life. You can expect from me: To be heard completely and without judgement; To gain insight and understanding; To be supported with empathy and connection; and, To experience positive change.
(03) 6144 6106 View (03) 6144 6106
Photo of Bella Guilfoyle, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Bella Guilfoyle
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, emotional distress, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, chronic pain, chronic illness, and significant life transitions, including pregnancy and postpartum.
Hello, and welcome. I offer integrative psychotherapy with a strong focus on eco-therapy, supporting clients through sessions held in natural outdoor environments as well as online. My work is person-centred, trauma-informed, and grounded in mind–body awareness and nervous system regulation. Being in nature can gently support feelings of safety, connection, and emotional balance, creating a different and often deeply calming therapeutic experience.
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, emotional distress, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, chronic pain, chronic illness, and significant life transitions, including pregnancy and postpartum.
Hello, and welcome. I offer integrative psychotherapy with a strong focus on eco-therapy, supporting clients through sessions held in natural outdoor environments as well as online. My work is person-centred, trauma-informed, and grounded in mind–body awareness and nervous system regulation. Being in nature can gently support feelings of safety, connection, and emotional balance, creating a different and often deeply calming therapeutic experience.
(07) 2100 4252 View (07) 2100 4252
Photo of Nicole Varigos, Psychologist, MPsych
Nicole Varigos
Psychologist, MPsych
Online Only
Nicole is a psychologist based on the Gold Coast. Nicole is an empathic practitioner who has a passion for working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, persistent pain and chronic health conditions. She also enjoys working with high functioning clients who are seeking assistance to optimize their mental health and improve stress management. Based in Queensland and offering psychological intervention via telehealth video-conferencing with current availability.
Nicole is a psychologist based on the Gold Coast. Nicole is an empathic practitioner who has a passion for working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, persistent pain and chronic health conditions. She also enjoys working with high functioning clients who are seeking assistance to optimize their mental health and improve stress management. Based in Queensland and offering psychological intervention via telehealth video-conferencing with current availability.
(08) 9930 2085 View (08) 9930 2085
Photo of Sarah Dakhili, Counsellor, AMHSW
Sarah Dakhili
Counsellor, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 14 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD.
Sarah is passionate about helping clients achieve meaningful connections, assisting them to reconnect and work towards developing a closer, stronger and more secure relationship with themselves and their body. She focuses on supporting clients with experiencing a new reference point for happiness and to overcome struggles. She works mainly online.
She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 14 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD.
Sarah is passionate about helping clients achieve meaningful connections, assisting them to reconnect and work towards developing a closer, stronger and more secure relationship with themselves and their body. She focuses on supporting clients with experiencing a new reference point for happiness and to overcome struggles. She works mainly online.
(07) 3130 0085 View (07) 3130 0085
Photo of Christina Dionisopoulos, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Christina Dionisopoulos
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Hurstville, NSW 2220
As a Registered Psychologist with over 15 years experience I understand the need to access support as soon as possible and to ensure that the client is provided with the tools and strategies in order for them to make positive changes in their lives. That is why TIVITI was established . To provide Positivity through Psychology. My aim is to help empower people to explore the challenges they are facing in life and make positive changes.
As a Registered Psychologist with over 15 years experience I understand the need to access support as soon as possible and to ensure that the client is provided with the tools and strategies in order for them to make positive changes in their lives. That is why TIVITI was established . To provide Positivity through Psychology. My aim is to help empower people to explore the challenges they are facing in life and make positive changes.
(02) 8806 1212 View (02) 8806 1212
Photo of Marzena Diard - Marzena Diard Therapy, Psychotherapist
Marzena Diard Therapy
Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
Stanmore, NSW 2048
Living with chronic pain can feel exhausting, confusing, and lonely—especially when it doesn’t improve with conventional treatments.
I specialise in helping individuals move beyond chronic pain using an evidence-based, trauma-informed Mind and Body approach I call Moving Beyond Pain. This integrative method combines the latest in pain neuroscience with gentle somatic and holistic therapies—including Gestalt Therapy, IFS, Emotional Awareness and Expression, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy.
Living with chronic pain can feel exhausting, confusing, and lonely—especially when it doesn’t improve with conventional treatments.
I specialise in helping individuals move beyond chronic pain using an evidence-based, trauma-informed Mind and Body approach I call Moving Beyond Pain. This integrative method combines the latest in pain neuroscience with gentle somatic and holistic therapies—including Gestalt Therapy, IFS, Emotional Awareness and Expression, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy.
(02) 9100 0784 View (02) 9100 0784
Photo of Nadia Rasheed, Counsellor, PACFA
Nadia Rasheed
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As an EMDR practitioner and clinical counsellor, I provide online therapy using trauma-informed approaches and specialised EMDR techniques. I understand how stress, anxiety, and trauma can deeply affect your sense of self and your closest relationships. In our sessions, we'll create meaningful wellness goals that help you reclaim control, find emotional freedom, and rebuild important connections. My practice offers a safe space where your experiences are honoured and your healing journey is supported with expertise and genuine care. Together, we'll develop the tools you need to move forward with confidence and renewed hope.
As an EMDR practitioner and clinical counsellor, I provide online therapy using trauma-informed approaches and specialised EMDR techniques. I understand how stress, anxiety, and trauma can deeply affect your sense of self and your closest relationships. In our sessions, we'll create meaningful wellness goals that help you reclaim control, find emotional freedom, and rebuild important connections. My practice offers a safe space where your experiences are honoured and your healing journey is supported with expertise and genuine care. Together, we'll develop the tools you need to move forward with confidence and renewed hope.
(08) 6244 2579 View (08) 6244 2579
Chronic Pain Therapists
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.