Chronic Pain Counselling in Smithfield, NSW

Sava Tsolis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NSW 2164
He also has extensive experience in the area of Chronic Pain Management as a result of his work in the Concord Hospital Pain Clinic.
BArts-Psych (Hons), Macquarie University MPsych (Clinical), University of New South Wales Sava Tsolis is the founder and Principal Clinical Psychologist at Insight Psychology Group. He has many years experience working in both public and private settings with children, adolescents, adults and older adults. His qualifications include a Bachelor of Arts with Honours Degree in Psychology from Macquarie University and a Master Degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of New South Wales.
He also has extensive experience in the area of Chronic Pain Management as a result of his work in the Concord Hospital Pain Clinic.
BArts-Psych (Hons), Macquarie University MPsych (Clinical), University of New South Wales Sava Tsolis is the founder and Principal Clinical Psychologist at Insight Psychology Group. He has many years experience working in both public and private settings with children, adolescents, adults and older adults. His qualifications include a Bachelor of Arts with Honours Degree in Psychology from Macquarie University and a Master Degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of New South Wales.
(02) 9757 6400 View (02) 9757 6400
Photo of Kerrie Ann Baker, PACFA, Counsellor
Kerrie Ann Baker
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NSW 2164
Hi, I'm Kerrie. I'm a Clinical Counsellor who is passionate about working in the mental health space. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, using drugs or alcohol to help you cope? Are you unable to move past a challenging time in your life or sick of waking up every day feeling the same? Are you ready to get help? I work with adults with a variety of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorder, grief and loss, relationship issues and developing boundaries.
Hi, I'm Kerrie. I'm a Clinical Counsellor who is passionate about working in the mental health space. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, using drugs or alcohol to help you cope? Are you unable to move past a challenging time in your life or sick of waking up every day feeling the same? Are you ready to get help? I work with adults with a variety of presenting issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorder, grief and loss, relationship issues and developing boundaries.
(02) 8105 5818 View (02) 8105 5818
Photo of undefined - Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice, MPsych, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice
Psychotherapist, MPsych, PACFA
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NSW 2164
Shahid draws his experience and expertise from 20 years of working with teenagers, adults, couples and group therapy work. He has worked with alcohol, and drug rehabilitation program, vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals, families experiencing domestic violence and other mental health issues. He provides well-being support and empowerment programs to support individuals in achieving their goals. With his private practice (Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice) in Hinchinbrook, Shahid offers online and in-person consultations that cater to individuals from across the wider Sydney region and online consultation worldwide.
Shahid draws his experience and expertise from 20 years of working with teenagers, adults, couples and group therapy work. He has worked with alcohol, and drug rehabilitation program, vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals, families experiencing domestic violence and other mental health issues. He provides well-being support and empowerment programs to support individuals in achieving their goals. With his private practice (Green Valley Psychotherapy Practice) in Hinchinbrook, Shahid offers online and in-person consultations that cater to individuals from across the wider Sydney region and online consultation worldwide.
(02) 8105 5120 View (02) 8105 5120
Photo of Colleen Mary Nicholas, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Colleen Mary Nicholas
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NSW 2164
Hi. I’m Colleen Nicholas. I’m an Art Therapist, Sandtray Therapist, Interactive Drawing Therapist and Counsellor. I offer expressive therapies in addition to talk therapy, because sometimes words are not enough. It can be difficult to find words to express what we are thinking, feeling or experiencing. Sometimes we are not aware of the “real issue” that’s causing our distress.
Hi. I’m Colleen Nicholas. I’m an Art Therapist, Sandtray Therapist, Interactive Drawing Therapist and Counsellor. I offer expressive therapies in addition to talk therapy, because sometimes words are not enough. It can be difficult to find words to express what we are thinking, feeling or experiencing. Sometimes we are not aware of the “real issue” that’s causing our distress.
(02) 8609 3981 View (02) 8609 3981

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Raynor Michelle Lander, MPsych, PsyBA - Health Psych., Psychologist
Raynor Michelle Lander
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Harris Park, NSW 2150
I enjoy collaborating with clients to solve their problems and enrich their lives. I work with clients experiencing trauma, work place harassment, & chronic pain as well as depression and anxiety.. I also work with couples. I enjoy seeing people overcome their challenges & move on with their lives I offer EMDR & Clinical Hypnosis which frequently expedites real change in a relatively short time.
I enjoy collaborating with clients to solve their problems and enrich their lives. I work with clients experiencing trauma, work place harassment, & chronic pain as well as depression and anxiety.. I also work with couples. I enjoy seeing people overcome their challenges & move on with their lives I offer EMDR & Clinical Hypnosis which frequently expedites real change in a relatively short time.
(02) 7804 4786 View (02) 7804 4786
Photo of Luke Wright, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Luke Wright
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Seven Hills, NSW 2147
I have extensive experience across the public and private sector treating concerns as broad as emotional regulation, attachment concerns and chronic pain or illness.
I am a compassionate, non-judgemental 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, no matter what it might be! I believe that there is no one size fits all approach to therapy. My therapeutic approach puts my clients at the centre of their therapy journey, collaboratively working towards their own unique goals or values and tailoring a treatment modality that works for them.
I have extensive experience across the public and private sector treating concerns as broad as emotional regulation, attachment concerns and chronic pain or illness.
I am a compassionate, non-judgemental 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, no matter what it might be! I believe that there is no one size fits all approach to therapy. My therapeutic approach puts my clients at the centre of their therapy journey, collaboratively working towards their own unique goals or values and tailoring a treatment modality that works for them.
(02) 8609 3742 View (02) 8609 3742
Photo of Sharon van Doorene, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sharon van Doorene
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Castle Hill, NSW 2154  (Online Only)
Sharon has worked effectively with a diverse range of clients and presentations including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, adjustment difficulties, trauma, identity problems, emotion dysregulation, stress, grief, relationship problems, and personal development.
Sharon recognises that life can be difficult at times and that anyone can be stretched beyond their ability to cope. Sharing the struggle with someone who can empathise and respond compassionately with sound psychological support, can be like having someone light a candle in a dark room. Sharon views her clients as the experts of their own lives and uses her clinical skills to come alongside clients to develop a joint understanding and way to navigate through those parts or experiences that interfere with a meaningful life.
Sharon has worked effectively with a diverse range of clients and presentations including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, adjustment difficulties, trauma, identity problems, emotion dysregulation, stress, grief, relationship problems, and personal development.
Sharon recognises that life can be difficult at times and that anyone can be stretched beyond their ability to cope. Sharing the struggle with someone who can empathise and respond compassionately with sound psychological support, can be like having someone light a candle in a dark room. Sharon views her clients as the experts of their own lives and uses her clinical skills to come alongside clients to develop a joint understanding and way to navigate through those parts or experiences that interfere with a meaningful life.
(02) 8403 0109 View (02) 8403 0109
Photo of undefined - Centre for Meaningful Growth, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Centre for Meaningful Growth
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Seven Hills, NSW 2147
Maria can offer psychometric assessments and therapy for a range of child, adolescent and adult mental health presentations, including depression, anxiety, complex trauma & PTSD, OCD, chronic pain, grief/loss, interpersonal difficulties, learning difficulties, Autism and ADHD.
Maria has a keen interest in children as well as women’s health and has extensive experience with perinatal mental health and child development. She is passionate about supporting new parents as they navigate the exciting yet challenging transition to parenthood. Having worked extensively in the area of pregnancy loss, Maria has provided much-needed support to families through their grieving process, offering a compassionate and understanding approach. Maria’s dedication to comprehensive care for parents extends from planning to conceive through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Maria speaks fluent tagalog (Filipino).
Maria can offer psychometric assessments and therapy for a range of child, adolescent and adult mental health presentations, including depression, anxiety, complex trauma & PTSD, OCD, chronic pain, grief/loss, interpersonal difficulties, learning difficulties, Autism and ADHD.
Maria has a keen interest in children as well as women’s health and has extensive experience with perinatal mental health and child development. She is passionate about supporting new parents as they navigate the exciting yet challenging transition to parenthood. Having worked extensively in the area of pregnancy loss, Maria has provided much-needed support to families through their grieving process, offering a compassionate and understanding approach. Maria’s dedication to comprehensive care for parents extends from planning to conceive through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Maria speaks fluent tagalog (Filipino).
(02) 8609 3207 View (02) 8609 3207
Photo of Veronica Ing, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Veronica Ing
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Fairfield, NSW 2165
I practice as a Clinical Psychologist and I am passionate about implementing holistic practices to help people live a more authentic, compassionate and fulfilling life. I have a particular interest in self-development and spirituality. I work with adult clients who present with low mood, anxiety, panic and worry, symptoms of acute and complex trauma, emotion regulation difficulties, anger problems, feelings of overwhelm or stress, chronic pain, low self-worth, feeling lost or stuck in life, relationship concerns, family dynamic difficulties, existential and spiritual concerns, and adjusting to major life transitions.
I practice as a Clinical Psychologist and I am passionate about implementing holistic practices to help people live a more authentic, compassionate and fulfilling life. I have a particular interest in self-development and spirituality. I work with adult clients who present with low mood, anxiety, panic and worry, symptoms of acute and complex trauma, emotion regulation difficulties, anger problems, feelings of overwhelm or stress, chronic pain, low self-worth, feeling lost or stuck in life, relationship concerns, family dynamic difficulties, existential and spiritual concerns, and adjusting to major life transitions.
(02) 8105 6236 View (02) 8105 6236
Photo of Dr Evelyn Gasparillo, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Evelyn Gasparillo
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Bossley Park, NSW 2176  (Online Only)
Dr Evelyn Gasparillo works with adult from 18 to 80+. You can count on her professional skills to help you with a wide range of psychological and mental health concerns such as: • Depression and other mood related issues • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder • Anxiety, panic attacks and phobias • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder • Adjustment Disorder • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) • Self-esteem issues • Anger management • Grief and Loss • Sleep Problems • Work related stress • Significant life transitions and acculturation issues. • Chronic pain.
Dr Evelyn Gasparillo works with adult from 18 to 80+. You can count on her professional skills to help you with a wide range of psychological and mental health concerns such as: • Depression and other mood related issues • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder • Anxiety, panic attacks and phobias • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder • Adjustment Disorder • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) • Self-esteem issues • Anger management • Grief and Loss • Sleep Problems • Work related stress • Significant life transitions and acculturation issues. • Chronic pain.
(08) 6336 9960 View (08) 6336 9960
Photo of Christina Dionisopoulos, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Christina Dionisopoulos
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Baulkham Hills, NSW 2153
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 undefined - Growth Psychology Consulting, MAPS, Psychologist
Growth Psychology Consulting
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
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 , gambling, adjustment issues, relationship issues , marriage counselling , self esteem , children, adolescents private clients, workcover, CTP , solicitors reports. 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 , gambling, adjustment issues, relationship issues , marriage counselling , self esteem , children, adolescents private clients, workcover, CTP , solicitors reports. We help in guiding you for whatever life changes you are going through.
(02) 8880 5183 View (02) 8880 5183
Photo of Jessica Cortes, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Jessica Cortes
Psychologist, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Baulkham Hills, NSW 2153
Please only call the mobile . J & Co values holistic care, providing the latest scientific evidence based best practices. It aims at providing a safe, confidential, and accepting space to explore life’s challenges. Further, the clinic gives people the tools they need to effectively deal with their psychological well-being and improve their quality of life.
Please only call the mobile . J & Co values holistic care, providing the latest scientific evidence based best practices. It aims at providing a safe, confidential, and accepting space to explore life’s challenges. Further, the clinic gives people the tools they need to effectively deal with their psychological well-being and improve their quality of life.
(02) 8403 0921 View (02) 8403 0921
Photo of undefined - Temenos Psychotherapy Counselling, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Temenos Psychotherapy Counselling
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parramatta, NSW 2150
Compassion for the human condition and the premise that we are not passive victims of our circumstances but have freedom to choose how we want to be, are the main foundations I work with. I believe that we all possess the natural self-healing capacity that is seated in the deep center of our being, and I see psychotherapy as the work of finding, unlocking and opening doors through which healing can flow, and seeds towards transformation can be nurtured. I also approach all the suffering and pain that clients present, as an opportunity to use the crisis for personal growth and as a pathway to a deeper connection with the true self.
Compassion for the human condition and the premise that we are not passive victims of our circumstances but have freedom to choose how we want to be, are the main foundations I work with. I believe that we all possess the natural self-healing capacity that is seated in the deep center of our being, and I see psychotherapy as the work of finding, unlocking and opening doors through which healing can flow, and seeds towards transformation can be nurtured. I also approach all the suffering and pain that clients present, as an opportunity to use the crisis for personal growth and as a pathway to a deeper connection with the true self.
(02) 4703 9752 View (02) 4703 9752
Photo of Van Pham, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Van Pham
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Canley Heights, NSW 2166
I believe a strong therapeutic alliance is key to successful treatment. This bond is based on shared goals, collaboration, and mutual trust by my clients. I see my clients as the best experts on their needs and desires. My role is to provide a safe space for them to explore, reorganize, and sometimes let go of anything hindering their journey to a meaningful and fulfilling life. I offer psychological interventions and assessments in English (fluent), Vietnamese (fluent) and Mandarin (working proficiency) through: Medicare NSW Worker Compensation NSW Compulsory Third Party (CTP) Insurance NDIS Employee Assistance Program.
I believe a strong therapeutic alliance is key to successful treatment. This bond is based on shared goals, collaboration, and mutual trust by my clients. I see my clients as the best experts on their needs and desires. My role is to provide a safe space for them to explore, reorganize, and sometimes let go of anything hindering their journey to a meaningful and fulfilling life. I offer psychological interventions and assessments in English (fluent), Vietnamese (fluent) and Mandarin (working proficiency) through: Medicare NSW Worker Compensation NSW Compulsory Third Party (CTP) Insurance NDIS Employee Assistance Program.
0435 564 237 View 0435 564 237
Photo of undefined - Whychange Psychology Services, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Whychange Psychology Services
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Wentworthville, NSW 2145
Founded in 2006 with a small but growing team of talented psychologists, we specialise in both short-term and long-term work on a wide range of problems. Our psychologists specialise in adult and adolescent individual and family sessions, to address mental illness, adjustment difficulties, interpersonal conflict, workplace stress, as well as complex challenges such as trauma, chronic illness, and relationship breakdown. Set in a quiet location with easy parking and access to public transport nearby.
Founded in 2006 with a small but growing team of talented psychologists, we specialise in both short-term and long-term work on a wide range of problems. Our psychologists specialise in adult and adolescent individual and family sessions, to address mental illness, adjustment difficulties, interpersonal conflict, workplace stress, as well as complex challenges such as trauma, chronic illness, and relationship breakdown. Set in a quiet location with easy parking and access to public transport nearby.
(02) 9538 7026 View (02) 9538 7026
Photo of Marya Setrak, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Marya Setrak
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Parramatta, NSW 2150
My ideal client wants to work collaboratively with their therapist, to establish a resilient and independent coping mechanism to manage their everyday life. Common presenting problems for such clients may include depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Self-esteem issues and personality disorders (such as borderline personality disorder).
My ideal client wants to work collaboratively with their therapist, to establish a resilient and independent coping mechanism to manage their everyday life. Common presenting problems for such clients may include depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Self-esteem issues and personality disorders (such as borderline personality disorder).
(02) 7804 4816 View (02) 7804 4816
Photo of undefined - Kerry Bailey @ The Functional Mind & SydneyHypno, AACBT, Psychotherapist
Kerry Bailey @ The Functional Mind & SydneyHypno
Psychotherapist, AACBT
Verified Verified
Parramatta, NSW 2150
I am here to help & care for you. My Values: Integrity, Respect, Compassion, Authenticity, Trust & Empowerment. ​ My Philosophy: You are important, unique & valuable, & you deserve to live your best life. There may be aspects of your life where you feel held back somehow, that this feels like it is a struggle. My role is to guide & to assist you to get connected with all the missing pieces that will not only help you to get unstuck - these skills will also help you with long lasting, skilful strategies to live your best life. Your session is a judgement free zone, your safe space, where your outcomes are my sole focus.
I am here to help & care for you. My Values: Integrity, Respect, Compassion, Authenticity, Trust & Empowerment. ​ My Philosophy: You are important, unique & valuable, & you deserve to live your best life. There may be aspects of your life where you feel held back somehow, that this feels like it is a struggle. My role is to guide & to assist you to get connected with all the missing pieces that will not only help you to get unstuck - these skills will also help you with long lasting, skilful strategies to live your best life. Your session is a judgement free zone, your safe space, where your outcomes are my sole focus.
(02) 9100 0242 View (02) 9100 0242
Photo of Rosa Oyta - Registered Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Rosa Oyta - Registered Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Hill, NSW 2154
Life can be overwhelming at times and it's completely natural to experience stress and anxiety. Whether it's work, relationships, or personal struggles, remember that you're not alone in facing these difficulties. Together, we will join forces to develop strategies to support your mental health.
Life can be overwhelming at times and it's completely natural to experience stress and anxiety. Whether it's work, relationships, or personal struggles, remember that you're not alone in facing these difficulties. Together, we will join forces to develop strategies to support your mental health.
(02) 8294 2080 View (02) 8294 2080
Photo of Navneet Jassal, PACFA, Counsellor
Navneet Jassal
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bella Vista, NSW 2153
Grounded in empowerment and holistic well-being, my therapeutic practice aims to foster resilience, fulfillment, and balance. During my sessions, I utilize Mindfulness-based therapies, EMDR, EFT, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Parts Work, and Private Subconscious Healing (PSH) Therapy to address a spectrum of mental health challenges, including OCD, emotional pain, low self-confidence, low self-esteem, addictions, complex PTSD, depression, anxiety and much more. I incorporate techniques to help individuals disconnect from sticky emotions, enabling them to connect with their true selves and receive divine guidance and healing.
Grounded in empowerment and holistic well-being, my therapeutic practice aims to foster resilience, fulfillment, and balance. During my sessions, I utilize Mindfulness-based therapies, EMDR, EFT, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Parts Work, and Private Subconscious Healing (PSH) Therapy to address a spectrum of mental health challenges, including OCD, emotional pain, low self-confidence, low self-esteem, addictions, complex PTSD, depression, anxiety and much more. I incorporate techniques to help individuals disconnect from sticky emotions, enabling them to connect with their true selves and receive divine guidance and healing.
(02) 8074 1729 View (02) 8074 1729

See more therapy options for Smithfield

Chronic Pain Counsellors

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophising, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.