Chronic Illness Psychologists and Therapists in Westmead, NSW
I am an accredited social worker with 24 years of experience working across Sydney. I have experience working for NGOs, and State and Federal Government agencies in counselling, community development, case management, disaster recovery, group work and delivering training. I enjoy engaging with diverse individuals and families at varied stages of life, providing therapeutic intervention, and working towards positive change. I am available to provide a variety of support services to assist individuals with reaching their goals. I use talk therapy and creative therapy techniques and a strengths based approach to work towards change.
I am an accredited social worker with 24 years of experience working across Sydney. I have experience working for NGOs, and State and Federal Government agencies in counselling, community development, case management, disaster recovery, group work and delivering training. I enjoy engaging with diverse individuals and families at varied stages of life, providing therapeutic intervention, and working towards positive change. I am available to provide a variety of support services to assist individuals with reaching their goals. I use talk therapy and creative therapy techniques and a strengths based approach to work towards change.
Hi, I am Usha and I am dedicated to creating a compassionate and supportive space where you can explore your pain and begin your journey toward healing. With over 12 years of experience in trauma recovery and a diverse background in counseling and psychology, I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs. My goal is to empower you, rebuild your inner strength, and help you regain control over your life. You don’t have to face this alone—together, we will work towards a future filled with hope and resilience.
Hi, I am Usha and I am dedicated to creating a compassionate and supportive space where you can explore your pain and begin your journey toward healing. With over 12 years of experience in trauma recovery and a diverse background in counseling and psychology, I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs. My goal is to empower you, rebuild your inner strength, and help you regain control over your life. You don’t have to face this alone—together, we will work towards a future filled with hope and resilience.
I specialise in mental health, trauma (including childhood trauma & sexual abuse/assault), domestic violence, parenting, cancer & chronic illness, offending behaviour, & BPD.
I have been a counsellor, case manager & youth worker since 2008. Prior to 2016 I worked primarily with young people & their families, however I can & have worked with people across the age spectrum, all with unique & varied needs. Counselling is an individual experience & I want you to feel that no matter what, your needs are important. This is why I aim to provide an accessible, affordable & sustainable service. I believe I can help you on your journey towards the best version of yourself. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult & see if you agree.
I specialise in mental health, trauma (including childhood trauma & sexual abuse/assault), domestic violence, parenting, cancer & chronic illness, offending behaviour, & BPD.
I have been a counsellor, case manager & youth worker since 2008. Prior to 2016 I worked primarily with young people & their families, however I can & have worked with people across the age spectrum, all with unique & varied needs. Counselling is an individual experience & I want you to feel that no matter what, your needs are important. This is why I aim to provide an accessible, affordable & sustainable service. I believe I can help you on your journey towards the best version of yourself. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult & see if you agree.
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.
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.
More Therapists Nearby
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.
Leonie has lived in the local area her whole life and has been practicing in Matraville for over 20 years. Leonie holds a Masters Degree in Psychology from Sydney University, is AHPRA, NDIS and SIRA accredited. Through her career Leonie has assisted patients of virtually every cultural background and believes the diversity of her patients has led to her skill and strength as a practitioner.
Leonie has lived in the local area her whole life and has been practicing in Matraville for over 20 years. Leonie holds a Masters Degree in Psychology from Sydney University, is AHPRA, NDIS and SIRA accredited. Through her career Leonie has assisted patients of virtually every cultural background and believes the diversity of her patients has led to her skill and strength as a practitioner.
Hi, my name is Christine (she/her) and I live on Gadigal land. I’m an experienced AHPRA registered clinical psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society and the EMDR Association of Australia. I have extensive experience across drug and alcohol, complex mental health and trauma, and chronic pain and medical conditions. I offer individualised, person-centred therapy that affords you the greatest agency by prioritising collaboration, combining your self-wisdom with a variety of evidence-based psychological treatments.
Hi, my name is Christine (she/her) and I live on Gadigal land. I’m an experienced AHPRA registered clinical psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society and the EMDR Association of Australia. I have extensive experience across drug and alcohol, complex mental health and trauma, and chronic pain and medical conditions. I offer individualised, person-centred therapy that affords you the greatest agency by prioritising collaboration, combining your self-wisdom with a variety of evidence-based psychological treatments.
I specialise in supporting individuals facing challenges involving perfectionism, burnout, chronic illness, overwhelm and anxiety.
I provide neuroaffirming care and practice according to trauma-aware principles, acknowledging and welcoming people of all experiences, identities and bodies. My practice is a LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC safe space and I pay deep respect and celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
I specialise in supporting individuals facing challenges involving perfectionism, burnout, chronic illness, overwhelm and anxiety.
I provide neuroaffirming care and practice according to trauma-aware principles, acknowledging and welcoming people of all experiences, identities and bodies. My practice is a LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC safe space and I pay deep respect and celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
I am passionate about supporting thriving, connection and personal growth. Utilizing creative, reflective and trauma informed practices together we work to support positive change in life’s most difficult and complex circumstances. Working in the here and now with what emerges in the therapeutic relationship we discover and uncover new awareness's. Some people don't like being in closed rooms and some enjoy connecting to nature ask me about my walk and talk session for grounding and re-energizing, clearing the mind of rumination, improve circulation, practice deep breathing, relieve body tension, regulate moods and decrease anxiety.
I am passionate about supporting thriving, connection and personal growth. Utilizing creative, reflective and trauma informed practices together we work to support positive change in life’s most difficult and complex circumstances. Working in the here and now with what emerges in the therapeutic relationship we discover and uncover new awareness's. Some people don't like being in closed rooms and some enjoy connecting to nature ask me about my walk and talk session for grounding and re-energizing, clearing the mind of rumination, improve circulation, practice deep breathing, relieve body tension, regulate moods and decrease anxiety.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and others? You could be feeling depressed, maybe you suffer from anxiety. You might feel overwhelmed by your emotions at times. Sadness. Anger. Confusion. Sometimes they all mix together into one big negative feeling that threatens to overtake you. Or, maybe you just feel numb–you go about your life… like you are living in a daze not knowing what you feel or what you want. Maybe you feel simply just not good enough.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and others? You could be feeling depressed, maybe you suffer from anxiety. You might feel overwhelmed by your emotions at times. Sadness. Anger. Confusion. Sometimes they all mix together into one big negative feeling that threatens to overtake you. Or, maybe you just feel numb–you go about your life… like you are living in a daze not knowing what you feel or what you want. Maybe you feel simply just not good enough.
Somatic Psychotherapies offers Clinical Supervision (+SOS), Counselling (talk & somatic based) & Trauma Informed Yoga Therapy to Child/Youth/Adult, Couples & Families with availability for Weekday & Weekend sessions Online via (Video/Voicelink) across Australia, New Zealand & Worldwide. I can utilise various assessments when appropriate to measure the severity of a specific problem, as well as determining your progress within therapy. I can also teach many various emotional regulation skills where this may be of benefit for you too. Whatever you are going through, know that there is hope - Let me help you find that hope.
Somatic Psychotherapies offers Clinical Supervision (+SOS), Counselling (talk & somatic based) & Trauma Informed Yoga Therapy to Child/Youth/Adult, Couples & Families with availability for Weekday & Weekend sessions Online via (Video/Voicelink) across Australia, New Zealand & Worldwide. I can utilise various assessments when appropriate to measure the severity of a specific problem, as well as determining your progress within therapy. I can also teach many various emotional regulation skills where this may be of benefit for you too. Whatever you are going through, know that there is hope - Let me help you find that hope.
I'm available for general counselling for any life problems you may have, as well as specific strategies aimed at treating anxiety, depression and sleep difficulties.
I'm available for general counselling for any life problems you may have, as well as specific strategies aimed at treating anxiety, depression and sleep difficulties.
Hi, I’m Gun — an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, trained in Evidence-Based EFT/Tapping, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), ACT for trauma, anxiety, relationships, ADHD and perfectionism, and a Certified Buteyko Breathing Instructor. I specialise in anxiety, trauma, insomnia, chronic pain/illnesses and other health challenges. Offering psychological interventions tailored to your needs and with a Mental Health Care Plan, 10 Medicare rebate sessions per calendar year.
Hi, I’m Gun — an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, trained in Evidence-Based EFT/Tapping, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), ACT for trauma, anxiety, relationships, ADHD and perfectionism, and a Certified Buteyko Breathing Instructor. I specialise in anxiety, trauma, insomnia, chronic pain/illnesses and other health challenges. Offering psychological interventions tailored to your needs and with a Mental Health Care Plan, 10 Medicare rebate sessions per calendar year.
I trained as a therapist because I know the grief, health-related anxiety and depression of chronic illness can be overwhelming.
I work holistically with the mind-body connection using present experience. Greater awareness of the nuances between physical symptoms, emotions, sensations and patterns of thinking and experience can create more choice, a better relationship with yourself, your body and your condition.
I trained as a therapist because I know the grief, health-related anxiety and depression of chronic illness can be overwhelming.
I work holistically with the mind-body connection using present experience. Greater awareness of the nuances between physical symptoms, emotions, sensations and patterns of thinking and experience can create more choice, a better relationship with yourself, your body and your condition.
You might be finding it hard to switch off, feeling weighed down by your thoughts, or struggling with your relationship with food, your body, your health, or yourself. I work with adults and older adolescents (16+) who want to feel more understood, supported, and equipped to cope. Together, we can make sense of what’s been keeping you stuck and work toward meaningful, practical change. My approach is warm and collaborative, with a focus on helping you move forward at a pace that feels manageable.
You might be finding it hard to switch off, feeling weighed down by your thoughts, or struggling with your relationship with food, your body, your health, or yourself. I work with adults and older adolescents (16+) who want to feel more understood, supported, and equipped to cope. Together, we can make sense of what’s been keeping you stuck and work toward meaningful, practical change. My approach is warm and collaborative, with a focus on helping you move forward at a pace that feels manageable.
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.
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.
Chronic illness is inherently traumatic.
If you’re living with complex conditions like POTS, Long COVID, MCAS, EDS, CFS, or Autoimmune disorders, your nervous system is likely in a constant state of high alert.
When a body is stuck in a cycle of flares, exhaustion, and medical gaslighting, "just talking about it" often isn't enough. You can’t talk your way out of a physiological nervous system response.
My practice is designed for those who have hit a wall with traditional talk therapy and are seeking a body-based, neuroaffirming approach to find stability again.
Chronic illness is inherently traumatic.
If you’re living with complex conditions like POTS, Long COVID, MCAS, EDS, CFS, or Autoimmune disorders, your nervous system is likely in a constant state of high alert.
When a body is stuck in a cycle of flares, exhaustion, and medical gaslighting, "just talking about it" often isn't enough. You can’t talk your way out of a physiological nervous system response.
My practice is designed for those who have hit a wall with traditional talk therapy and are seeking a body-based, neuroaffirming approach to find stability again.
They may be navigating trauma, addiction recovery, chronic illness, burnout, early family experiences, or anxiety that feels deeper than stress management alone.
My work integrates talk therapy, somatic approaches, nervous system regulation, and symbolic work such as Sandplay (in person). I also understand the connection between emotional and physical wellbeing, particularly for clients living with chronic illness. Sessions are personalised, practical, and tailored to your needs.
They may be navigating trauma, addiction recovery, chronic illness, burnout, early family experiences, or anxiety that feels deeper than stress management alone.
My work integrates talk therapy, somatic approaches, nervous system regulation, and symbolic work such as Sandplay (in person). I also understand the connection between emotional and physical wellbeing, particularly for clients living with chronic illness. Sessions are personalised, practical, and tailored to your needs.
Nearby Chronic Illness Therapists Searches for Westmead
- Baulkham Hills
- Bella Vista
- Blacktown
- Carlingford
- Castle Hill
- Fairfield
- North Parramatta
- Norwest
- Parramatta
- Seven Hills
- Wentworthville
- West Pennant Hills
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.