Cancer Psychologists and Therapists in Ryde, NSW

Ashleigh Dina Dakkache
Psychologist, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ashleigh is a warm and compassionate psychologist who supports individuals navigating a variety of concerns, with a special interest in complex life transitions, including cancer, chronic illness, grief, and late diagnosis ADHD/ASD.
Ashleigh works with adolescents, young adults and adults across a variety of concerns, including anxiety and mood disorders. She brings particular experience supporting individuals navigating adjustment to diagnosis, health anxiety, identity shifts, end of life care, survivorship and the emotional impact of health-related challenges.
Ashleigh is a warm and compassionate psychologist who supports individuals navigating a variety of concerns, with a special interest in complex life transitions, including cancer, chronic illness, grief, and late diagnosis ADHD/ASD.
Ashleigh works with adolescents, young adults and adults across a variety of concerns, including anxiety and mood disorders. She brings particular experience supporting individuals navigating adjustment to diagnosis, health anxiety, identity shifts, end of life care, survivorship and the emotional impact of health-related challenges.
(02) 7804 4990 View (02) 7804 4990
Sylvia Chen
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I am a trauma-informed clinical counsellor, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), gong sound healer, breathwork facilitator that firmly believes in the value of human life. I have experience in a range of areas including marriage/relationship, anxiety and stress, trauma, depression, attachment, family of origin issues, parenting, grief & loss, personal growth & development, special need supports and chronic health related concerns. ​I am warm, caring and insightful. I am here to support your integration, and all of the various parts of your personality and being, into a balanced and joyful whole, made up of body, mind and soul.
I am a trauma-informed clinical counsellor, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), gong sound healer, breathwork facilitator that firmly believes in the value of human life. I have experience in a range of areas including marriage/relationship, anxiety and stress, trauma, depression, attachment, family of origin issues, parenting, grief & loss, personal growth & development, special need supports and chronic health related concerns. ​I am warm, caring and insightful. I am here to support your integration, and all of the various parts of your personality and being, into a balanced and joyful whole, made up of body, mind and soul.
(02) 8403 0049 View (02) 8403 0049
Loss and Love Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
I offer general counselling for anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and family challenges. I also specialise in grief counselling, which includes relationship breakdown, health challenges, and the death of someone deeply loved. If you are grieving a child, partner, parent, sibling, friend, or someone close to your heart, you deserve a space where your loss is honoured and your pain is met with care. Grief has no timeline, and every loss is unique. As a registered counsellor with lived experience of losing my baby daughter, I offer gentle, authentic support shaped by professional training and personal understanding
I offer general counselling for anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and family challenges. I also specialise in grief counselling, which includes relationship breakdown, health challenges, and the death of someone deeply loved. If you are grieving a child, partner, parent, sibling, friend, or someone close to your heart, you deserve a space where your loss is honoured and your pain is met with care. Grief has no timeline, and every loss is unique. As a registered counsellor with lived experience of losing my baby daughter, I offer gentle, authentic support shaped by professional training and personal understanding
0414 929 705 View 0414 929 705
Matti Lee
Counsellor, MSc, PACFA
Serves Area
"Feeling stuck?" - This is one of the most common expression for counselling clients. Innerhealth Practice has been helping clients to explore options and exercise solutions in difficult situations. I am passionate about improving health and maintaining harmonious life balance. Life is filled with challenges and joy. If you would like to try a new way of coping, you might prefer working with someone who has been professionally trained in counselling combined with the practical experience. Look no further, make a call today and be in charge of your issue. Nationally Registered & Accredited services by PACFA and ACA.
"Feeling stuck?" - This is one of the most common expression for counselling clients. Innerhealth Practice has been helping clients to explore options and exercise solutions in difficult situations. I am passionate about improving health and maintaining harmonious life balance. Life is filled with challenges and joy. If you would like to try a new way of coping, you might prefer working with someone who has been professionally trained in counselling combined with the practical experience. Look no further, make a call today and be in charge of your issue. Nationally Registered & Accredited services by PACFA and ACA.
(02) 8294 8741 View (02) 8294 8741
Ayesha Anwar
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If life feels overwhelming, emotionally exhausting, or you’ve been carrying unanswered questions for too long, therapy can offer a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, emotional distress, trauma, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, life transitions, and overwhelming personal stress. Many people spend years caring for others while neglecting their own emotional needs. Your wellbeing matters too. My approach is compassionate, trauma-informed, and non-judgemental. Together, we work to understand your experiences, identify unhelpful patterns, strengthen emotional res
If life feels overwhelming, emotionally exhausting, or you’ve been carrying unanswered questions for too long, therapy can offer a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, emotional distress, trauma, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, life transitions, and overwhelming personal stress. Many people spend years caring for others while neglecting their own emotional needs. Your wellbeing matters too. My approach is compassionate, trauma-informed, and non-judgemental. Together, we work to understand your experiences, identify unhelpful patterns, strengthen emotional res
(02) 8609 3406 View (02) 8609 3406
Kristine Koh
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I have a strong interest in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, chronic health conditions, chronic pain and life transitions (such as work roles, migration, or life stages). I am also passionate about working with individuals from different cultures (particularly South East Asia) and adjusting to living in Australia as a migrant or international student, who are exploring their sense of self and identity, and reconciling their values with their new identity. I see therapy as a safe, non-judgemental, calm space to explore the issues in depth.
I have a strong interest in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, chronic health conditions, chronic pain and life transitions (such as work roles, migration, or life stages). I am also passionate about working with individuals from different cultures (particularly South East Asia) and adjusting to living in Australia as a migrant or international student, who are exploring their sense of self and identity, and reconciling their values with their new identity. I see therapy as a safe, non-judgemental, calm space to explore the issues in depth.
(02) 8403 0404 View (02) 8403 0404

More Therapists Nearby

Felicity Johnson
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
I've spent my counselling career in grief and loss, supporting clients through illness, bereavement, caring, and the various losses that come with major life transitions. I'm not into toxic positivity – sometimes life really is hard – but I can offer a space to laugh and cry and rage and vent, and find ways together to keep moving forward.
I've spent my counselling career in grief and loss, supporting clients through illness, bereavement, caring, and the various losses that come with major life transitions. I'm not into toxic positivity – sometimes life really is hard – but I can offer a space to laugh and cry and rage and vent, and find ways together to keep moving forward.
0422 126 557 View 0422 126 557
Kylie O'Brien
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
For those navigating cancer, emotional support is available at every stage.
At The Body's Way in Bondi Junction, I offer Somatic Psychotherapy that honors the mind-body connection and addresses the root cause of distress. Do you struggle with anxiety, overwhelming grief, or the lingering effects of trauma and find yourself stuck in old patterns? You may have gained insight from talk therapy, yet you feel caught in cycles of overthinking or emotional numbness. This is often when your nervous system gets stuck, either in overwhelm or leaving you wired yet exhausted. Is your deepest longing lasting, physiological calm to feel safe and trust your mind-body signals. Move you beyond coping to true self-trust.
For those navigating cancer, emotional support is available at every stage.
At The Body's Way in Bondi Junction, I offer Somatic Psychotherapy that honors the mind-body connection and addresses the root cause of distress. Do you struggle with anxiety, overwhelming grief, or the lingering effects of trauma and find yourself stuck in old patterns? You may have gained insight from talk therapy, yet you feel caught in cycles of overthinking or emotional numbness. This is often when your nervous system gets stuck, either in overwhelm or leaving you wired yet exhausted. Is your deepest longing lasting, physiological calm to feel safe and trust your mind-body signals. Move you beyond coping to true self-trust.
0466 203 837 View 0466 203 837
Jules Shore
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have you or someone you love just received a cancer diagnosis?
I offer compassionate, person-centered support to help navigate the emotional, psychological, and relational challenges that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. I aim to help you feel heard and understood, build emotional resilience, and develop practical coping strategies during a profoundly difficult time.
Have you or someone you love just received a cancer diagnosis?
I offer compassionate, person-centered support to help navigate the emotional, psychological, and relational challenges that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. I aim to help you feel heard and understood, build emotional resilience, and develop practical coping strategies during a profoundly difficult time.
(08) 7008 7356 View (08) 7008 7356
Lila Juliette Pesa
Counsellor, ACA-L4
2 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
My other area of specialisation is in cancer (oncology) counselling and bereavement counselling.
Attachment-based / attachment-focused therapy; Trauma-informed Stabilization Treatment; EMDR therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology-informed, emotion-focused / body-based; Expressive Arts Psychotherapy; Depth Psychology / Jungian Psychotherapy; Developmental Approach for couple therapy; Certified practitioner Grof's Holotropic Breathwork
My other area of specialisation is in cancer (oncology) counselling and bereavement counselling.
Attachment-based / attachment-focused therapy; Trauma-informed Stabilization Treatment; EMDR therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology-informed, emotion-focused / body-based; Expressive Arts Psychotherapy; Depth Psychology / Jungian Psychotherapy; Developmental Approach for couple therapy; Certified practitioner Grof's Holotropic Breathwork
(02) 9100 0902 View (02) 9100 0902
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
InHeart
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
You’ve just heard the words “ cancer” or “brain tumour,” and suddenly life feels uncertain, overwhelming, or surreal.
I’m a counsellor with 12 + years’ experience and lived experience of a brain tumour and cancer. I offer heart-centered, client-led support for your emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. I can help with fear, overwhelm, grief, anxiety, and the mental health impacts of illness, at your pace. You don’t have to face this alone. I’ll walk alongside you.
You’ve just heard the words “ cancer” or “brain tumour,” and suddenly life feels uncertain, overwhelming, or surreal.
I’m a counsellor with 12 + years’ experience and lived experience of a brain tumour and cancer. I offer heart-centered, client-led support for your emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. I can help with fear, overwhelm, grief, anxiety, and the mental health impacts of illness, at your pace. You don’t have to face this alone. I’ll walk alongside you.
(07) 2801 7169 View (07) 2801 7169
Kate Wright
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Lewisham, NSW 2049
Psychotherapy is about expanding your understanding of yourself and your relationships, about learning to navigate the world differently. While therapy is about dealing with problems and treating symptoms, it is also about recognising strengths and promoting growth. It is place for emergence, expansion and transformation. People access therapy for many reasons: past, present and future concerns – usually a mix of all.
Psychotherapy is about expanding your understanding of yourself and your relationships, about learning to navigate the world differently. While therapy is about dealing with problems and treating symptoms, it is also about recognising strengths and promoting growth. It is place for emergence, expansion and transformation. People access therapy for many reasons: past, present and future concerns – usually a mix of all.
0403 803 667 View 0403 803 667
Cecile Pierron
Psychologist, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there! I offer warm, attuned care and pride myself in my ability to guide with a mix of whip fast evidence based problem solving, and unconditional encouragement and support. My biggest professional and personal flex is my unwavering commitment to joy, whimsy, and light, and I marry that to a depth of training to tailor interventions. Neurodivergent embracing, LGBTQ celebrating, I invite you at your most authentic. Book through my website to be seen ASAP, I have after hours availability at the moment!
Hi there! I offer warm, attuned care and pride myself in my ability to guide with a mix of whip fast evidence based problem solving, and unconditional encouragement and support. My biggest professional and personal flex is my unwavering commitment to joy, whimsy, and light, and I marry that to a depth of training to tailor interventions. Neurodivergent embracing, LGBTQ celebrating, I invite you at your most authentic. Book through my website to be seen ASAP, I have after hours availability at the moment!
0424 407 968 View 0424 407 968
Olga Koronovskaia
Psychotherapist, PACFA
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a qualified and experienced psychotherapist and counsellor. I offer deep therapeutic work with various experiences and struggles in adults from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. I hold a Master’s degree in Social Psychology as well as a Master’s in Counselling and Applied Psychotherapy. I am also educated in psychoanalysis and art therapy and am currently pursuing further studies in Jungian analysis. My education and experience give me valuable insight into human nature, enabling me to truly support people on their journey toward well-being.
I am a qualified and experienced psychotherapist and counsellor. I offer deep therapeutic work with various experiences and struggles in adults from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. I hold a Master’s degree in Social Psychology as well as a Master’s in Counselling and Applied Psychotherapy. I am also educated in psychoanalysis and art therapy and am currently pursuing further studies in Jungian analysis. My education and experience give me valuable insight into human nature, enabling me to truly support people on their journey toward well-being.
(02) 5118 9035 View (02) 5118 9035
Allan Thomas Redpath
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Kingsford, NSW 2032
We all have aspects of our personality and behaviour that we and others find difficult. Often we just live with these trying to control them on our own. However, this is always difficult as it is hard for us to be objective and honest about ourselves. Having someone to help us be objective and not skip over these difficult areas of our lives, can be very helpful. Together we would work on revealing and unravelling these problem areas but only at a speed you can handle, you will always be in control of this process. What you reveal is between us, confidentiality is paramount. You decide who and when you wish to share with.
We all have aspects of our personality and behaviour that we and others find difficult. Often we just live with these trying to control them on our own. However, this is always difficult as it is hard for us to be objective and honest about ourselves. Having someone to help us be objective and not skip over these difficult areas of our lives, can be very helpful. Together we would work on revealing and unravelling these problem areas but only at a speed you can handle, you will always be in control of this process. What you reveal is between us, confidentiality is paramount. You decide who and when you wish to share with.
(02) 9158 6502 View (02) 9158 6502
Lara Boss - Counselling and Supervision
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
I am passionate about the work that I do. I offer my clients a confidential, safe environment to address their areas of concern in a holistic manner. This includes mental health, relationship issues, stress, managing change, and grief & loss. I use a solution focused approach, with a goal of empowering my clients, and supporting them to improve their emotional, physical health and wellbeing. I work with my clients to build on their strengths, and address their areas of concern. Together we work on strategies that they can use in managing their issues.
I am passionate about the work that I do. I offer my clients a confidential, safe environment to address their areas of concern in a holistic manner. This includes mental health, relationship issues, stress, managing change, and grief & loss. I use a solution focused approach, with a goal of empowering my clients, and supporting them to improve their emotional, physical health and wellbeing. I work with my clients to build on their strengths, and address their areas of concern. Together we work on strategies that they can use in managing their issues.
(02) 9158 6229 View (02) 9158 6229
Staghorn Sexology
Social Worker, AASW
Blaxland, NSW 2774
Waitlist for new clients
We have special interest in men's health, ageing sexuality, sexual function after cancer diagnosis/treatment, infidelity, sexual trauma and gay/lesbian/queer relationships including consensual non-monogamy.
We conduct a thorough bio-psycho-social-sexual assessment and, with you, come up with a treatment plan tailored to your concerns, needs and goals. Our sex therapy work is influenced by Integrative Sexual Health Counselling, Sensate Focus and the Good Enough Sex Model. Our relationship work is influenced by Gottman Method Couple Therapy, EFT and CCBT.
We have special interest in men's health, ageing sexuality, sexual function after cancer diagnosis/treatment, infidelity, sexual trauma and gay/lesbian/queer relationships including consensual non-monogamy.
We conduct a thorough bio-psycho-social-sexual assessment and, with you, come up with a treatment plan tailored to your concerns, needs and goals. Our sex therapy work is influenced by Integrative Sexual Health Counselling, Sensate Focus and the Good Enough Sex Model. Our relationship work is influenced by Gottman Method Couple Therapy, EFT and CCBT.
(02) 4063 1410 View (02) 4063 1410
Gay Cusack
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
My ideal client is interested in developing self-awareness and learning skills to better manage difficult thoughts and feelings. They are looking for a therapist who they can build a working relationship with, based on genuine respect, support, and compassion, and who draws from the most recent research about what is effective in treatment. They want therapy to be tailored to their unique life experiences and personal strengths and weaknesses. My ideal client is someone who wants therapy to be a collaborative process, where the therapist and client work together to help the client reach their goals.
My ideal client is interested in developing self-awareness and learning skills to better manage difficult thoughts and feelings. They are looking for a therapist who they can build a working relationship with, based on genuine respect, support, and compassion, and who draws from the most recent research about what is effective in treatment. They want therapy to be tailored to their unique life experiences and personal strengths and weaknesses. My ideal client is someone who wants therapy to be a collaborative process, where the therapist and client work together to help the client reach their goals.
(02) 9100 0341 View (02) 9100 0341
Anneliese Cooper
Counsellor
Casula, NSW 2170
With so much going on in the world right now, many amazing people are struggling with anxiety, depression & overwhelm from the world around them. For most, It can be difficult to pin point how they feel, what is wrong or what is missing from their life & stealing their joy. Most people aren't fulling understanding their feelings or emotions & hence don't know where to even begin to feel better. I am here for these children, adults, couples & families. I am very passionate about helping you find balance within yourself & support you to learn & to adjust, grow, develop strategies & be a more confident you.
With so much going on in the world right now, many amazing people are struggling with anxiety, depression & overwhelm from the world around them. For most, It can be difficult to pin point how they feel, what is wrong or what is missing from their life & stealing their joy. Most people aren't fulling understanding their feelings or emotions & hence don't know where to even begin to feel better. I am here for these children, adults, couples & families. I am very passionate about helping you find balance within yourself & support you to learn & to adjust, grow, develop strategies & be a more confident you.
(02) 8105 5944 View (02) 8105 5944
Cancer Therapists
How does cancer affect mental health?
A cancer diagnosis is a major life event that can significantly influence the mental health of any individual. Being diagnosed with cancer often introduces a sense of uncertainty about the future, which can cause clients to experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, and significant distress. Many cancer patients may also worry about the toll that their diagnosis may have on their family, their physical health, their job, and their financial situation. The compounding of such stressors can also decrease mental health in clients and may lead to additional symptoms that can influence mental health, such as sleeping difficulties or social withdrawal.

What is the best psychological therapy for cancer patients?
The best type of psychological therapy for cancer patients is highly dependent on the needs of the individual. The therapy type that a client benefits from may also depend on what stage of the cancer journey they are in. Recently diagnosed cancer patients, for instance, may benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which can help clients develop skills to manage the emotional distress that comes with a cancer diagnosis. Alternatively, cancer patients further along in their journey may benefit from therapies like Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or other forms of mindfulness therapy to help manage symptoms or physical pain associated with treatment. Clients may also consider group therapy, which offers cancer patients an opportunity to receive support from other individuals dealing with a cancer diagnosis.

Are there any risks or drawbacks in going to therapy while dealing with cancer?
Although attending therapy while dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be helpful, one major concern for cancer patients can be the financial cost of seeking therapy. Many therapists are out-of-network, meaning they do not accept insurance, and thus clients are expected to pay the entirety of the session fee. Since many cancer patients may be out of work as a result of their diagnosis or cancer treatment regimen, the costs of therapy sessions can be substantial. Luckily, many cancer centers and local clinics may offer free or substantially reduced-cost counselling services to cancer patients and their families. In addition, cancer patients may be eligible for grants or other forms of funding from local agencies and nonprofits to seek therapy for their cancer diagnosis. Such opportunities can be very helpful for cancer patients, as they allow clients to obtain the benefits of therapy without the financial strain.

How long does cancer therapy typically last?
The length of cancer therapy depends on the needs of each client. In some cases, cancer patients may only require therapeutic support during the period following their initial diagnosis—to help manage the uncertainty and shock of a cancer diagnosis. In other cases, clients may choose to receive therapy throughout their treatment, and even following, their cancer journey. Pursuing therapy for a longer period of time can help clients develop a deeper relationship with their therapist and provide opportunity to process the challenges presented by cancer treatment, such as physical pain, and challenges associated with cancer survivorship, such as ongoing identity concerns, physical limitations, or relationship challenges.