Chronic Illness Psychologists and Therapists in Auchenflower, QLD

Photo of Naomi Griffin, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Naomi Griffin
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
By providing a safe environment in which you can describe your concerns without fear of judgment, we can identify together your goals for therapy. I work with adults and teens who are navigating times of adjustment and change, whether these be in your mental or physical health, your career / employment stability, or social and professional networks. You may be experiencing an anxiety disorder or OCD, depressive disorder, adjustment disorder, or a loss of confidence and self-esteem. You may also be navigating difficult interpersonal relationships such as amongst family members, romantic relationships, or work or social environments.
By providing a safe environment in which you can describe your concerns without fear of judgment, we can identify together your goals for therapy. I work with adults and teens who are navigating times of adjustment and change, whether these be in your mental or physical health, your career / employment stability, or social and professional networks. You may be experiencing an anxiety disorder or OCD, depressive disorder, adjustment disorder, or a loss of confidence and self-esteem. You may also be navigating difficult interpersonal relationships such as amongst family members, romantic relationships, or work or social environments.
(07) 2100 4961 View (07) 2100 4961
Photo of Mathew Heilig, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mathew Heilig
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I work with people experiencing various psychological difficulties including anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, difficulty coping with emotions, overwhelming stress, and managing chronic illness.
My approach to therapy is to explore and bring awareness to underlying causes of current symptoms/issues, understand their influence on the present, and provide evidence-based skills to cope and change. I practice primarily from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) frameworks.
I work with people experiencing various psychological difficulties including anxiety and depression, trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, difficulty coping with emotions, overwhelming stress, and managing chronic illness.
My approach to therapy is to explore and bring awareness to underlying causes of current symptoms/issues, understand their influence on the present, and provide evidence-based skills to cope and change. I practice primarily from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) frameworks.
(07) 3186 5678 View (07) 3186 5678
Photo of Jayani Nayana Jayatilake - Peaceful Mind Counselling, Social Worker, AMHSW
Peaceful Mind Counselling
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Do you want to feel listened and understood? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious unable to cope or make decisions and feel like nothings working for you? I am an Accredited Psychotherapist / Mental Health Social Worker with over 10 years’ experience. My practice is based on compassion and mindfulness Working form, a trauma informed approach using evidence-based therapeutic interventions that is tailored to your specific needs, I can assist you with gaining insight and learning range of techniques that can guide you to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma (including PTDS), loss and grief, DV and more.
Do you want to feel listened and understood? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious unable to cope or make decisions and feel like nothings working for you? I am an Accredited Psychotherapist / Mental Health Social Worker with over 10 years’ experience. My practice is based on compassion and mindfulness Working form, a trauma informed approach using evidence-based therapeutic interventions that is tailored to your specific needs, I can assist you with gaining insight and learning range of techniques that can guide you to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma (including PTDS), loss and grief, DV and more.
(07) 3088 9155 View (07) 3088 9155
Photo of Renee Ryan, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Renee Ryan
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Referrals OPEN - My experience of 27 yrs is broad ranging for adults experiencing lifes' challenges. I'm trained in CBT, DBT, ACT & Gottman & utilise tailored approaches to work holistically with people to achieve their desired outcomes. I'm passionate about working with people to reach their potential & make a positive difference in their life. It's important to me to create a meaningful & therapeutic relationship where the client feels safe in the space of my beautifully presented rooms & engage in self-reflection & exploration. Together we'll identify the practical approaches you can use across your life.
Referrals OPEN - My experience of 27 yrs is broad ranging for adults experiencing lifes' challenges. I'm trained in CBT, DBT, ACT & Gottman & utilise tailored approaches to work holistically with people to achieve their desired outcomes. I'm passionate about working with people to reach their potential & make a positive difference in their life. It's important to me to create a meaningful & therapeutic relationship where the client feels safe in the space of my beautifully presented rooms & engage in self-reflection & exploration. Together we'll identify the practical approaches you can use across your life.
(07) 3113 9935 View (07) 3113 9935

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of James Whiting, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
James Whiting
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
James is a warm and compassionate psychologist who believes in taking a flexible and collaborative treatment approach that is client-centred and reflects the unique goals and values of each individual. He provides an evidence-based approach to treatment utilising strategies based in cognitive-behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and interpersonal psychotherapy. His background of working in both public and private sectors has provided him with experience in working with a broad range of clients with diverse backgrounds and clinical presentations.
James is a warm and compassionate psychologist who believes in taking a flexible and collaborative treatment approach that is client-centred and reflects the unique goals and values of each individual. He provides an evidence-based approach to treatment utilising strategies based in cognitive-behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and interpersonal psychotherapy. His background of working in both public and private sectors has provided him with experience in working with a broad range of clients with diverse backgrounds and clinical presentations.
(07) 3186 6072 View (07) 3186 6072
Photo of Jane Zimmerman, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jane Zimmerman
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Paddington, QLD 4064
You may be living with a long-term health condition such as obesity, diabetes, or heart disease, or preparing for or recovering from medical or surgical treatment. You want to feel healthier, more energetic, and more confident in your day-to-day life, but emotional or behavioural challenges make change hard. You may be dealing with low mood, anxiety, eating or body image concerns, compulsive behaviours, stress, or feeling stuck after many attempts. You want practical psychological support that understands the realities of managing health over time.
You may be living with a long-term health condition such as obesity, diabetes, or heart disease, or preparing for or recovering from medical or surgical treatment. You want to feel healthier, more energetic, and more confident in your day-to-day life, but emotional or behavioural challenges make change hard. You may be dealing with low mood, anxiety, eating or body image concerns, compulsive behaviours, stress, or feeling stuck after many attempts. You want practical psychological support that understands the realities of managing health over time.
(07) 2100 4921 View (07) 2100 4921
Photo of Lisa Schubert, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Lisa Schubert
Psychotherapist, PACFA
West End, QLD 4101
I am a psychotherapist working with the Gestalt approach. I provide trauma-informed and body-positive therapy to preteens, teens and adults. My priority in working together is to co-create a safe and supportive space in which you are seen and deeply listened to, and to offer therapy that is relational, creative and present-focused. I also bring in embodied recovery (somatic) techniques which I find can be very helpful for building resilience and resetting the nervous system.
I am a psychotherapist working with the Gestalt approach. I provide trauma-informed and body-positive therapy to preteens, teens and adults. My priority in working together is to co-create a safe and supportive space in which you are seen and deeply listened to, and to offer therapy that is relational, creative and present-focused. I also bring in embodied recovery (somatic) techniques which I find can be very helpful for building resilience and resetting the nervous system.
(07) 2100 4425 View (07) 2100 4425
Photo of Jessica Cove - Jessica Cove Holistic Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Jessica Cove Holistic Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
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.
(07) 5240 9171 View (07) 5240 9171
Photo of Esther Davis - Esther Davis Psychology, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Esther Davis Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a fellow human, I deeply understand that pain and suffering, although normal, can be exquisitely hard. I provide a safe space for you to explore the struggles in your life and how your backstory affects you today. Together we can discover and establish the story you want to lead going forward; one in which you can be at rest and flourish.
As a fellow human, I deeply understand that pain and suffering, although normal, can be exquisitely hard. I provide a safe space for you to explore the struggles in your life and how your backstory affects you today. Together we can discover and establish the story you want to lead going forward; one in which you can be at rest and flourish.
(02) 4214 4075 View (02) 4214 4075
Photo of Laura Jordan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Laura Jordan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Paddington, QLD 4064
I help clients manage chronic illness, pain, cancer treatment and injury recovery through tailored therapy focusing on coping skills, stress reduction, and emotional support.
I am a clinical psychologist who has also previously completed a Master of Counselling degree. My qualifications and 10+ years' experience enables me to integrate a range of therapeutic approaches, while also ensuring that the support provided is client-centred and tailored to each individual's needs. Evidence-based therapies that I incorporate include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
I help clients manage chronic illness, pain, cancer treatment and injury recovery through tailored therapy focusing on coping skills, stress reduction, and emotional support.
I am a clinical psychologist who has also previously completed a Master of Counselling degree. My qualifications and 10+ years' experience enables me to integrate a range of therapeutic approaches, while also ensuring that the support provided is client-centred and tailored to each individual's needs. Evidence-based therapies that I incorporate include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema therapy, Mindfulness, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
(07) 3184 4023 View (07) 3184 4023
Photo of Gordon Wong, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Health Psych.
Gordon Wong
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Health Psych.
Online Only
Balancing a demanding career, managing a health condition, or navigating the complexities of modern life can leave you feeling stretched thin. At Socra Hub, Gordon’s mission is to create a space where you feel supported and free to be yourself. Together, we’ll explore what brought you to therapy and turn challenges into opportunities, helping you feel grounded and in control. Humans are built to grow, adapt, and evolve—and you’re no exception. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or lost, we’ll identify patterns, build on your strengths, and create a path forward that feels right for you.
Balancing a demanding career, managing a health condition, or navigating the complexities of modern life can leave you feeling stretched thin. At Socra Hub, Gordon’s mission is to create a space where you feel supported and free to be yourself. Together, we’ll explore what brought you to therapy and turn challenges into opportunities, helping you feel grounded and in control. Humans are built to grow, adapt, and evolve—and you’re no exception. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or lost, we’ll identify patterns, build on your strengths, and create a path forward that feels right for you.
(07) 2000 5831 View (07) 2000 5831
Photo of Rebecca Bennett, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Rebecca Bennett
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work primarily at the intersection of neurodivergence, disability/ chronic illness, and/or queer identity.
Hi! I'm Rebecca Bennett (she/her). I’m a queer, disabled, neurodivergent psychologist with a commitment to anti-oppressive, intersectional, affirming practice. I work primarily with neurodivergent, disabled, and chronically ill folks. I understand the intersection of these identities and aim to create a space where you can bring your whole self to our therapy sessions.
I work primarily at the intersection of neurodivergence, disability/ chronic illness, and/or queer identity.
Hi! I'm Rebecca Bennett (she/her). I’m a queer, disabled, neurodivergent psychologist with a commitment to anti-oppressive, intersectional, affirming practice. I work primarily with neurodivergent, disabled, and chronically ill folks. I understand the intersection of these identities and aim to create a space where you can bring your whole self to our therapy sessions.
View
Photo of Liane Anderson, Psychologist, MAPS
Liane Anderson
Psychologist, MAPS
Victoria Point, QLD 4165
Accepting new clients. Evening appointments available. I am a general psychologist with over 30 years of experience. I come to therapy with a non-pathologising view of symptoms and behaviour. My view is that the vast majority of symptoms of "mental illness" are an understandable response to various life circumstances. Some deep in our past, some in our present. I am passionate about helping people to heal, grow, and live full lives. I enjoy working at deep levels to shift stuckness, often the result of prior trauma. I work only with adults.
Accepting new clients. Evening appointments available. I am a general psychologist with over 30 years of experience. I come to therapy with a non-pathologising view of symptoms and behaviour. My view is that the vast majority of symptoms of "mental illness" are an understandable response to various life circumstances. Some deep in our past, some in our present. I am passionate about helping people to heal, grow, and live full lives. I enjoy working at deep levels to shift stuckness, often the result of prior trauma. I work only with adults.
(03) 9070 5442 View (03) 9070 5442
Photo of Jade Jensen, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Health Psych.
Jade Jensen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Health Psych.
Stafford, QLD 4053
My interests and experience include eating disorders, depression/anxiety/stress, neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism), chronic illness & disability.
I am a Health Psychologist based in North Brisbane (Stafford Heights) supporting individuals experiencing mental health and physical health problems. I provide sessions in person and online for adolescents (16+) and adults. My approach to treatment is warm, friendly, and genuine. I provide support to people during the tough seasons of life when they need extra help. I am flexible with treatment and see individuals based on their personal needs. Some schedule fortnightly appointments, others monthly, and others check in when they need to.
My interests and experience include eating disorders, depression/anxiety/stress, neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism), chronic illness & disability.
I am a Health Psychologist based in North Brisbane (Stafford Heights) supporting individuals experiencing mental health and physical health problems. I provide sessions in person and online for adolescents (16+) and adults. My approach to treatment is warm, friendly, and genuine. I provide support to people during the tough seasons of life when they need extra help. I am flexible with treatment and see individuals based on their personal needs. Some schedule fortnightly appointments, others monthly, and others check in when they need to.
(07) 3113 9942 View (07) 3113 9942
Photo of Sandy Ford - Northground, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Northground
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
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.
0411 607 463 View 0411 607 463
Photo of Hannah Jorgensen, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Hannah Jorgensen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Paddington, QLD 4064
Although I work with a variety of populations, I particularly enjoy working with adults and adolescents presenting with women's health issues, chronic pain, chronic illness, and trauma.
Coming from a background in counselling psychology, I focus on approaching care from a client-centred perspective. I believe it is a privilege to walk alongside people through their therapy journeys and aim to create a space that is nurturing to best support our brain and body's innate capacity for healing. I love to bring values of curiosity and compassion into the space to create a shared understanding of one's experiences, and find what resources we can draw upon and develop to support where they want to go.
Although I work with a variety of populations, I particularly enjoy working with adults and adolescents presenting with women's health issues, chronic pain, chronic illness, and trauma.
Coming from a background in counselling psychology, I focus on approaching care from a client-centred perspective. I believe it is a privilege to walk alongside people through their therapy journeys and aim to create a space that is nurturing to best support our brain and body's innate capacity for healing. I love to bring values of curiosity and compassion into the space to create a shared understanding of one's experiences, and find what resources we can draw upon and develop to support where they want to go.
0451 060 764 View 0451 060 764
Photo of Bronwyn Bickle, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Bronwyn Bickle
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Bronwyn, and I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM), chronic illness, and neurodivergence – I also hold safe, affirming space for LGBTQIA+, kink, and BDSM communities.
With 30+ years of lived experience navigating chronic illness and pain, I understand what it means to carry invisible weight; medical gaslighting, fatigue, the sense of being ‘too much’ or ‘not enough’ in a world that doesn’t always get it. Whether it’s grief, career uncertainty, burnout or just needing to say things out loud, I'm here for it!
Hi, I'm Bronwyn, and I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM), chronic illness, and neurodivergence – I also hold safe, affirming space for LGBTQIA+, kink, and BDSM communities.
With 30+ years of lived experience navigating chronic illness and pain, I understand what it means to carry invisible weight; medical gaslighting, fatigue, the sense of being ‘too much’ or ‘not enough’ in a world that doesn’t always get it. Whether it’s grief, career uncertainty, burnout or just needing to say things out loud, I'm here for it!
(08) 7523 4519 View (08) 7523 4519
Photo of Zorica Zoe Gruneska - Compassionate Journey (Zoe Gruneska), Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Compassionate Journey (Zoe Gruneska)
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I understand that one needs significant courage to take the first step towards therapy, and therefore I aim to provide a safe environment where you will feel comfortable to openly discuss any issues in a non-judgmental, warm, empathic, and supportive manner. We will explore your current difficulties and invite you to consider what you would like to be different. You will set the direction for our work and I will walk alongside you, as we identify and work on the strategies and actions that support you the best to build the life you want.
I understand that one needs significant courage to take the first step towards therapy, and therefore I aim to provide a safe environment where you will feel comfortable to openly discuss any issues in a non-judgmental, warm, empathic, and supportive manner. We will explore your current difficulties and invite you to consider what you would like to be different. You will set the direction for our work and I will walk alongside you, as we identify and work on the strategies and actions that support you the best to build the life you want.
(03) 7302 8856 View (03) 7302 8856
Photo of Gun Meskanen Hopkins - Holistic Therapy and Counselling, Social Worker, AMHSW
Holistic Therapy and Counselling
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
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.
(07) 5240 5771 View (07) 5240 5771
Photo of Melissa Downey - Lomatia - Telehealth Social Work Australia-Wide, Social Worker, MA, AASW
Lomatia - Telehealth Social Work Australia-Wide
Social Worker, MA, AASW
Online Only
They may be living with chronic illness, disability, or neurodivergence; be LGBTQIA+; be older adults navigating major transitions; or parents carrying their own health challenges.
I'm Mel — a social worker with a Master of Social Work (UTAS) and Bachelor of Psychological Science (CQU). I offer psychosocial support, therapeutic conversations, case management and advocacy via secure telehealth - Australia-wide. My practice is strengths-based, trauma-informed, and draws on my own lived experience of chronic illness and disability.
They may be living with chronic illness, disability, or neurodivergence; be LGBTQIA+; be older adults navigating major transitions; or parents carrying their own health challenges.
I'm Mel — a social worker with a Master of Social Work (UTAS) and Bachelor of Psychological Science (CQU). I offer psychosocial support, therapeutic conversations, case management and advocacy via secure telehealth - Australia-wide. My practice is strengths-based, trauma-informed, and draws on my own lived experience of chronic illness and disability.
(03) 6469 5484 View (03) 6469 5484
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.