Chronic Illness Psychologists and Therapists in Caulfield South, VIC

Lisa Schafer
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Caulfield South, VIC 3162
Hi, I'm Lisa - a psychologist who works with women who feel overwhelmed, anxious, chronically stressed, or lost in their careers and life. You may be experiencing burnout, a relationship trauma, struggling with low confidence and self-doubt, or navigating a career transition. You are seeking clarity, balance, wanting to feel more grounded, empowered and in control. You value a safe space to explore things that worry you and would like to learn how to reduce your anxiety, build resilience and improve your wellbeing. My work draws on Emotion Focused Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy and narrative coaching.
Hi, I'm Lisa - a psychologist who works with women who feel overwhelmed, anxious, chronically stressed, or lost in their careers and life. You may be experiencing burnout, a relationship trauma, struggling with low confidence and self-doubt, or navigating a career transition. You are seeking clarity, balance, wanting to feel more grounded, empowered and in control. You value a safe space to explore things that worry you and would like to learn how to reduce your anxiety, build resilience and improve your wellbeing. My work draws on Emotion Focused Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy and narrative coaching.
(03) 9820 5577 View (03) 9820 5577
Richard Norrish
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Serves Area
Richard aims to help clients achieve an improved quality of life, working towards a greater sense of personal control. With 20 years’ experience in counselling and clinical settings, he provides a supportive, non-judgmental and confidential space. He works collaboratively with the client in tailoring therapy to their unique set of circumstances. Therapy may range from a few sessions when targeting a specific problem, to medium and longer-term therapy when addressing long-held problematic behaviours, interpersonal patterns and emotion difficulties.
Richard aims to help clients achieve an improved quality of life, working towards a greater sense of personal control. With 20 years’ experience in counselling and clinical settings, he provides a supportive, non-judgmental and confidential space. He works collaboratively with the client in tailoring therapy to their unique set of circumstances. Therapy may range from a few sessions when targeting a specific problem, to medium and longer-term therapy when addressing long-held problematic behaviours, interpersonal patterns and emotion difficulties.
(03) 9068 5866 View (03) 9068 5866
Rachel Burchell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I work with adults facing a range of challenges including adjusting to life changes, anxiety, career transitions, chronic illness, depression, grief, parenting struggles, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues and substance use.
I offer a warm, empathetic therapeutic approach using evidence-based interventions tailored to each client’s needs. With experience in CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy and mindfulness techniques, I work collaboratively with clients to create lasting change. I am passionate about supporting clients as they heal, build resilience, and enhance their emotional and
I work with adults facing a range of challenges including adjusting to life changes, anxiety, career transitions, chronic illness, depression, grief, parenting struggles, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues and substance use.
I offer a warm, empathetic therapeutic approach using evidence-based interventions tailored to each client’s needs. With experience in CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy and mindfulness techniques, I work collaboratively with clients to create lasting change. I am passionate about supporting clients as they heal, build resilience, and enhance their emotional and
0416 261 825 View 0416 261 825
Dr Shikha Gray
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I work with adults & couples dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD & complex trauma, relationship difficulties, OCD and other emotional concerns. I approach therapy with a deep curiosity about you: how you see things like noone else. Depending on what brings you to therapy, we may explore how pivotal moments in life have shaped you, your beliefs, and your relationships, or we may look at practical ways you could bring about the changes you hope for. My aim is to provide a supportive space that helps you understand things more clearly, accept yourself more fully, and feel more capable of meeting life’s challenges.
I work with adults & couples dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD & complex trauma, relationship difficulties, OCD and other emotional concerns. I approach therapy with a deep curiosity about you: how you see things like noone else. Depending on what brings you to therapy, we may explore how pivotal moments in life have shaped you, your beliefs, and your relationships, or we may look at practical ways you could bring about the changes you hope for. My aim is to provide a supportive space that helps you understand things more clearly, accept yourself more fully, and feel more capable of meeting life’s challenges.
(03) 7003 2197 View (03) 7003 2197

More Therapists Nearby

Mary Ellen Jordan
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
Hi, I'm Mary Ellen (she/her) - ADHDer, and mother of two autistic people, with a particular interest in working with neurodivergent clients. I’m also experienced in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment to significant life transitions, illness and disability, caring for others, motherhood and personal growth and exploration. I create a safe and non-judgemental dynamic in the therapy room, enabling me to be both supportive and challenging in my work. I support clients to grow and flourish on their own terms - I don’t set an agenda for how things should turn out or what clients should be doing.
Hi, I'm Mary Ellen (she/her) - ADHDer, and mother of two autistic people, with a particular interest in working with neurodivergent clients. I’m also experienced in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment to significant life transitions, illness and disability, caring for others, motherhood and personal growth and exploration. I create a safe and non-judgemental dynamic in the therapy room, enabling me to be both supportive and challenging in my work. I support clients to grow and flourish on their own terms - I don’t set an agenda for how things should turn out or what clients should be doing.
0494 627 983 View 0494 627 983
Marisa Howard
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
Therapy provides a safe space to explore issues and practice new ways of being and the potential for healing from 'stuckness' or a clinical condition. The relationship with the therapist is most important in therapy, so feel free to give me a call to see if we connect. I'm registered with WorkCover (Worksafe Victoria) and specialise in helping those with trauma and workplace injury, psychological or physical, as well as ongoing medical conditions and health problems. I have training in psychodynamic and body-oriented approaches (somatics) and EMDR, as well as cognitive-behavioural (CBT) approaches like ACT.
Therapy provides a safe space to explore issues and practice new ways of being and the potential for healing from 'stuckness' or a clinical condition. The relationship with the therapist is most important in therapy, so feel free to give me a call to see if we connect. I'm registered with WorkCover (Worksafe Victoria) and specialise in helping those with trauma and workplace injury, psychological or physical, as well as ongoing medical conditions and health problems. I have training in psychodynamic and body-oriented approaches (somatics) and EMDR, as well as cognitive-behavioural (CBT) approaches like ACT.
(03) 7003 2740 View (03) 7003 2740
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
Breeanna Cross
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Health Psych.
1 Endorsed
Rosanna, VIC 3084
Breeanna is a registered and endorsed clinical health psychologist and credentialed eating disorder therapist. Breeanna is the director of Mind Your Health Centre in Rosanna. She enjoys providing evidence based treatment to a variety of people with mood and anxiety problems; pain management concerns; physical or psychological injury or illnesses; disordered eating, body image and weight management issues; life changes; grief and loss; parenting and relationship problems; performance and supporting health care professionals; assisting with academic and career issues.
Breeanna is a registered and endorsed clinical health psychologist and credentialed eating disorder therapist. Breeanna is the director of Mind Your Health Centre in Rosanna. She enjoys providing evidence based treatment to a variety of people with mood and anxiety problems; pain management concerns; physical or psychological injury or illnesses; disordered eating, body image and weight management issues; life changes; grief and loss; parenting and relationship problems; performance and supporting health care professionals; assisting with academic and career issues.
(03) 8592 7075 View (03) 8592 7075
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
kristy riley
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
Psychologist with lived experience of chronic illness, but also passionate about working with a range of issues including neurodivergence, trauma, anxiety, depression and life transitions.
Psychologist with over 15 years experience, and with lived experience of chronic illness. I aim to work together with you to create a space that feels safe, calm and without judgement. Because you deserve a therapist that get's it. Sessions will be held over telehealth, so you can be comfortable on your couch, chair, or even in bed (if unwell). From me you can expect a therapist who usually wears colours, has a sense of humour and doesn't sound like she's reading from a textbook. Life can be messy, and it's important to get help when it does. Whether that's with chronic illness, relationships, neurodivergence or other things.
Psychologist with lived experience of chronic illness, but also passionate about working with a range of issues including neurodivergence, trauma, anxiety, depression and life transitions.
Psychologist with over 15 years experience, and with lived experience of chronic illness. I aim to work together with you to create a space that feels safe, calm and without judgement. Because you deserve a therapist that get's it. Sessions will be held over telehealth, so you can be comfortable on your couch, chair, or even in bed (if unwell). From me you can expect a therapist who usually wears colours, has a sense of humour and doesn't sound like she's reading from a textbook. Life can be messy, and it's important to get help when it does. Whether that's with chronic illness, relationships, neurodivergence or other things.
View
Kerry Brown
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I firmly believe that the mind and body are connected at Mind and Body. I specialise in providing a holistic approach to counselling using a humanistic approach. Please bring whatever you feel to your sessions; I will not judge you. Counselling is about being true to yourself and working through life's challenges. We will work together to look at your goals and your needs at that very moment. We need to work together to face and overcome the challenges you are going through. By working together, you should be able to gain answers to some of the life questions you are seeking by yourself.
I firmly believe that the mind and body are connected at Mind and Body. I specialise in providing a holistic approach to counselling using a humanistic approach. Please bring whatever you feel to your sessions; I will not judge you. Counselling is about being true to yourself and working through life's challenges. We will work together to look at your goals and your needs at that very moment. We need to work together to face and overcome the challenges you are going through. By working together, you should be able to gain answers to some of the life questions you are seeking by yourself.
(07) 4803 1071 View (07) 4803 1071
Bella Guilfoyle
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with adults and young people aged 14 and over experiencing anxiety, trauma, grief, emotional distress, relationship difficulties, chronic pain, chronic illness, and significant life transitions, including pregnancy and the postnatal period.
Therapy doesn't always have to take place within four walls. For some people, being outdoors makes it easier to slow down, breathe, and begin talking about what feels difficult. This is why I offer walk-and-talk therapy in natural outdoor settings, alongside online sessions, giving you the opportunity to choose the environment that feels most comfortable and supportive. I offer integrative psychotherapy for adults and young people aged 14 and over. My approach is person-centred, trauma-informed, and grounded in an understanding of the connection between the mind, body, and nervous system.
I work with adults and young people aged 14 and over experiencing anxiety, trauma, grief, emotional distress, relationship difficulties, chronic pain, chronic illness, and significant life transitions, including pregnancy and the postnatal period.
Therapy doesn't always have to take place within four walls. For some people, being outdoors makes it easier to slow down, breathe, and begin talking about what feels difficult. This is why I offer walk-and-talk therapy in natural outdoor settings, alongside online sessions, giving you the opportunity to choose the environment that feels most comfortable and supportive. I offer integrative psychotherapy for adults and young people aged 14 and over. My approach is person-centred, trauma-informed, and grounded in an understanding of the connection between the mind, body, and nervous system.
(07) 2100 4252 View (07) 2100 4252
Chiu Lau
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
From 2003, Chiu has worked with autistic people and their families. Since then, she's developed proficiency treating and supporting clients across the lifespan experiencing trauma, chronic pain & fatigue, loss & grief, anxiety & mood disorders and minority stress (eg. Autistic, ADHD, medically disabled, culturally diverse and trans & gender questioning persons). Clients describe Chiu as thorough, efficient, down-to-earth, and practical. She works with a strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centred lens, offering a no-BS, affirming approach grounded in evidence-based therapeutic modalities.
From 2003, Chiu has worked with autistic people and their families. Since then, she's developed proficiency treating and supporting clients across the lifespan experiencing trauma, chronic pain & fatigue, loss & grief, anxiety & mood disorders and minority stress (eg. Autistic, ADHD, medically disabled, culturally diverse and trans & gender questioning persons). Clients describe Chiu as thorough, efficient, down-to-earth, and practical. She works with a strengths-based, trauma-informed, person-centred lens, offering a no-BS, affirming approach grounded in evidence-based therapeutic modalities.
0491 188 891 View 0491 188 891
Kim Singline
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
As a proud ADHDer with lived experience of chronic illness, I bring both expertise and personal insight to my work.
I am a registered psychologist with experience in both therapeutic and corporate psychology. I provide empathetic, warm and holistic support to clients who are navigating life challenges, such as anxiety, low mood, managing chronic health conditions or pain, relationship problems, low self-esteem or self-worth, or managing transitions. Clients I work with often find themselves overwhelmed and uncertain about the next steps. I collaborate with them to re-establish a connection with themselves, identify their desires and needs, and together, we chart a course towards achieving those goals, and take it step by step.
As a proud ADHDer with lived experience of chronic illness, I bring both expertise and personal insight to my work.
I am a registered psychologist with experience in both therapeutic and corporate psychology. I provide empathetic, warm and holistic support to clients who are navigating life challenges, such as anxiety, low mood, managing chronic health conditions or pain, relationship problems, low self-esteem or self-worth, or managing transitions. Clients I work with often find themselves overwhelmed and uncertain about the next steps. I collaborate with them to re-establish a connection with themselves, identify their desires and needs, and together, we chart a course towards achieving those goals, and take it step by step.
0414 303 105 View 0414 303 105
Embodying Hope - Tessa Gordon
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I have over 10 years of experience working alongside teens, adults, & families caught by eating disorders and chronic illness.
Eating disorders can feel hopeless, but they aren’t. Whether this is your first time seeking help or your umpteenth time, I believe everyone can recover. Just as there are many reasons why an eating disorder manifests in your life, the way you recover will be just as unique. If there were a one-size-fits-all solution, that would perhaps be as deceptive as the problem itself. Whether it’s perfectionism, judgment, loneliness, self-improvement, health, fear, family issues…Together, we will discover what invites these problems into your life and begin to find what recovery means for you.
I have over 10 years of experience working alongside teens, adults, & families caught by eating disorders and chronic illness.
Eating disorders can feel hopeless, but they aren’t. Whether this is your first time seeking help or your umpteenth time, I believe everyone can recover. Just as there are many reasons why an eating disorder manifests in your life, the way you recover will be just as unique. If there were a one-size-fits-all solution, that would perhaps be as deceptive as the problem itself. Whether it’s perfectionism, judgment, loneliness, self-improvement, health, fear, family issues…Together, we will discover what invites these problems into your life and begin to find what recovery means for you.
(07) 5241 1642 View (07) 5241 1642
Harmony Psychological Services
Psychologist, MAPS
Noble Park, VIC 3174
Semra Durmaz can help with the following issues: Chronic Injury and Pain management, Depression, Panic and anxiety Disorders, Relationship difficulties and family problems, Separation and divorce, Stress, Life crises, Nervous breakdowns, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Loss, grief and bereavement, Issues related to physical assault, sexual assault, Domestic violence, Childhood sexual abuse issues, Sleep problems, Difficulties with self-esteem and self-confidence Physical injury following a car accident or work injury, Migration and adjustment issues, Chronic psychiatric conditions, Gambling
Semra Durmaz can help with the following issues: Chronic Injury and Pain management, Depression, Panic and anxiety Disorders, Relationship difficulties and family problems, Separation and divorce, Stress, Life crises, Nervous breakdowns, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Loss, grief and bereavement, Issues related to physical assault, sexual assault, Domestic violence, Childhood sexual abuse issues, Sleep problems, Difficulties with self-esteem and self-confidence Physical injury following a car accident or work injury, Migration and adjustment issues, Chronic psychiatric conditions, Gambling
(03) 9068 5326 View (03) 9068 5326
Gaby Browarczyk
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
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.
(08) 6490 9056 View (08) 6490 9056
Kathryn White
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Melbourne, VIC 3000
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.
(03) 7003 2449 View (03) 7003 2449
Maddison Harris
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kilsyth, VIC 3137
Waitlist for new clients
Presentations that Maddison works with include the following: Autism (especially in girls and women), ADHD, Chronic illness, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Developmental trauma, Grief management, OCD, Perinatal and infant mental health, and life transitions.
Maddison is currently a qualified Clinical Psychologist. Maddison has experience working as a psychologist across a range of settings, including private practice, community health, and within schools. Modalities that Maddison is trained in include CBT, DBT, ACT, and Schema Therapy.
Presentations that Maddison works with include the following: Autism (especially in girls and women), ADHD, Chronic illness, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Developmental trauma, Grief management, OCD, Perinatal and infant mental health, and life transitions.
Maddison is currently a qualified Clinical Psychologist. Maddison has experience working as a psychologist across a range of settings, including private practice, community health, and within schools. Modalities that Maddison is trained in include CBT, DBT, ACT, and Schema Therapy.
(03) 8203 5398 View (03) 8203 5398
Kathryn Nicholson Perry
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
If you're living with persistent pain, a chronic illness, or symptoms that are real even though the scans keep coming back clear, you may know the tiredness of feeling half-believed.
My doctorate was on pain after spinal cord injury, and I spent years in hospital pain management, so these conditions are familiar ground. We work on practical improvements in your day to day life, drawing on pain and health science and cognitive behavioural approaches, always alongside your medical team rather than in place of it.
If you're living with persistent pain, a chronic illness, or symptoms that are real even though the scans keep coming back clear, you may know the tiredness of feeling half-believed.
My doctorate was on pain after spinal cord injury, and I spent years in hospital pain management, so these conditions are familiar ground. We work on practical improvements in your day to day life, drawing on pain and health science and cognitive behavioural approaches, always alongside your medical team rather than in place of it.
(02) 9244 1093 View (02) 9244 1093
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.