Chronic Pain Psychologists and Therapists in Footscray, VIC

Photo of Garth Bennett - Garth at Melbourne Inner West Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Garth at Melbourne Inner West Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Footscray, VIC 3011
Helping you with anxiety, depression, stress & overwhelm, challenging experiences (you may wish not to talk about), and chronic pain.
Garth has a direct no-nonsense approach as your "Consultant" to your mind and life choices where you are the Boss. He will make suggestions and provide ideas that he welcomes disagreement and deep discussion. He provides CBT, ACT, psychoeducation, couples and interpersonal therapy, hypnotherapy, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT).
Helping you with anxiety, depression, stress & overwhelm, challenging experiences (you may wish not to talk about), and chronic pain.
Garth has a direct no-nonsense approach as your "Consultant" to your mind and life choices where you are the Boss. He will make suggestions and provide ideas that he welcomes disagreement and deep discussion. He provides CBT, ACT, psychoeducation, couples and interpersonal therapy, hypnotherapy, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT).
0466 597 472 View 0466 597 472
Photo of Dr Ann Boonzaier, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Ann Boonzaier
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I have a special interest in supporting individuals living with chronic pain, chronic illness, and the effects of trauma.
My therapeutic approach is tailored to the individual and draws on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), DBT, and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). As an EMDR Accredited Practitioner, I have experience helping clients process traumatic experiences and develop greater resilience.
I have a special interest in supporting individuals living with chronic pain, chronic illness, and the effects of trauma.
My therapeutic approach is tailored to the individual and draws on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), DBT, and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). As an EMDR Accredited Practitioner, I have experience helping clients process traumatic experiences and develop greater resilience.
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Photo of Anna Inkster, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Anna Inkster
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Footscray, VIC 3011
Feeling emotionally exhausted, depressed, burnt out or anxious takes up a lot of energy and mental space. I meet people everyday who are struggling to feel better, they are at the mercy of their thoughts and are living on auto pilot. Our mind is constantly selling us stories and putting meaning to our experiences; it is the meaning we attach to circumstances, situations and experiences that can cause the suffering. Counselling can help with this! If you have been putting this off and just surviving, this is a sign to reach out for help-and yes, I do believe in signs!
Feeling emotionally exhausted, depressed, burnt out or anxious takes up a lot of energy and mental space. I meet people everyday who are struggling to feel better, they are at the mercy of their thoughts and are living on auto pilot. Our mind is constantly selling us stories and putting meaning to our experiences; it is the meaning we attach to circumstances, situations and experiences that can cause the suffering. Counselling can help with this! If you have been putting this off and just surviving, this is a sign to reach out for help-and yes, I do believe in signs!
(03) 6146 1669 View (03) 6146 1669
Photo of Lidija Trpcevska - Bright Psych, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Bright Psych
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Footscray, VIC 3011
Bright Psych provides a comprehensive psychological service for adolescents and adults.
Bright Psych provides a comprehensive psychological service for adolescents and adults.
(03) 9068 6415 View (03) 9068 6415
Photo of Halakhe Ganyu - Holistic Counselling Service., Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Holistic Counselling Service.
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
Many clients are presented with psychological and emotional symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders. These symptoms are usually a manifestations of underlying issues and unhappiness they may have been experiencing. They often sought help to get relief from such symptoms. In collaboration with the client, assessment and goal formulation, the underlying issues maybe identified and dealt with.
Many clients are presented with psychological and emotional symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders. These symptoms are usually a manifestations of underlying issues and unhappiness they may have been experiencing. They often sought help to get relief from such symptoms. In collaboration with the client, assessment and goal formulation, the underlying issues maybe identified and dealt with.
(03) 8595 5367 View (03) 8595 5367
Photo of Nikki Black, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Nikki Black
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with clients who are struggling with life in general, in particular those who suffer with grief/loss, chronic pain, depression, anxiety and self-esteem issues.
Life can be tough, but you don’t have to face it alone. Counselling can help you navigate your way back to feeling better about life. I’m a compassionate counsellor with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. I understand how overwhelming life’s challenges can be—whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, or any other personal issues. Taking that first step toward change is often the hardest, but with new strategies and support change is possible.
I work with clients who are struggling with life in general, in particular those who suffer with grief/loss, chronic pain, depression, anxiety and self-esteem issues.
Life can be tough, but you don’t have to face it alone. Counselling can help you navigate your way back to feeling better about life. I’m a compassionate counsellor with over 20 years of experience in healthcare. I understand how overwhelming life’s challenges can be—whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, or any other personal issues. Taking that first step toward change is often the hardest, but with new strategies and support change is possible.
0461 467 981 View 0461 467 981
Photo of Cristiona Guiney, Social Worker, AASW
Cristiona Guiney
Social Worker, AASW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer person.
I offer counselling informed by lived experience perspectives, mindful self-compassion and my own lived and living experience. I help clients work through sudden life changes, coming out and exploring gender, learning to live alongside suicidality, chronic pain and neurodivergence.
I live with chronic pain, autism, ADHD and lived experience of suicidality, anxiety, depression and being a transgender queer person.
I offer counselling informed by lived experience perspectives, mindful self-compassion and my own lived and living experience. I help clients work through sudden life changes, coming out and exploring gender, learning to live alongside suicidality, chronic pain and neurodivergence.
(03) 8338 1788 View (03) 8338 1788
Photo of Dr Sandra Nguyen, Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Dr Sandra Nguyen
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Online Only
Life can be very tough and stressful and sometimes we need some professional help. I am committed to the care of clients ranging from adolescents, adults, the elderly and couples. I strongly believe in the importance of a well-matched client-therapist relationship. I counsel people with a range of problems which includes depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, interpersonal relationships, personal skills development and self-esteem. I have experience in conducting assessments and preparing reports for the courts and migration issues. I am also fluent in Vietnamese. I offer Telehealth and face to face counselling.
Life can be very tough and stressful and sometimes we need some professional help. I am committed to the care of clients ranging from adolescents, adults, the elderly and couples. I strongly believe in the importance of a well-matched client-therapist relationship. I counsel people with a range of problems which includes depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, interpersonal relationships, personal skills development and self-esteem. I have experience in conducting assessments and preparing reports for the courts and migration issues. I am also fluent in Vietnamese. I offer Telehealth and face to face counselling.
(03) 9034 6057 View (03) 9034 6057
Photo of Jess Mackenzie, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Jess Mackenzie
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
Jess offers individual counselling, couples counselling and supervision. She is welcoming and friendly and recognises the importance of building a therapeutic relationship to which people can bring problems and issues without judgement. Jess understands that we all experience uncomfortable and unhelpful behaviours and feelings. With support and some gently challenging, these behaviours and feelings can start to shift.
Jess offers individual counselling, couples counselling and supervision. She is welcoming and friendly and recognises the importance of building a therapeutic relationship to which people can bring problems and issues without judgement. Jess understands that we all experience uncomfortable and unhelpful behaviours and feelings. With support and some gently challenging, these behaviours and feelings can start to shift.
(03) 8372 0590 View (03) 8372 0590
D & M Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Stan is a registered clinical psychologist with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and membership of the Australian Psychological Society. He has 18 years of training and experience and can speak in both Greek and English languages. He also has experience in working with adolescents, adults, older adults, and couples
Stan is a registered clinical psychologist with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and membership of the Australian Psychological Society. He has 18 years of training and experience and can speak in both Greek and English languages. He also has experience in working with adolescents, adults, older adults, and couples
0459 620 148 View 0459 620 148
Photo of Amanda D'Costa - AJ D'Costa Counselling , Counsellor, MA, PACFA
AJ D'Costa Counselling
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I'm AJ (Amanda), a South Asian Counsellor & Psychotherapist based in Naarm/Melbourne. Accessing affordable mental health support can be difficult, so I offer sliding scale fees on a case-by-case basis for those experiencing financial hardship. Whether you're navigating a specific challenge or exploring deeper life patterns, I offer kind, trauma-informed, evidence-based support for anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, cultural or religious concerns, LGBTQIA+ experiences, substance use, chronic health conditions, and more. Get in touch for a free 15 minute consultation today.
Hello, I'm AJ (Amanda), a South Asian Counsellor & Psychotherapist based in Naarm/Melbourne. Accessing affordable mental health support can be difficult, so I offer sliding scale fees on a case-by-case basis for those experiencing financial hardship. Whether you're navigating a specific challenge or exploring deeper life patterns, I offer kind, trauma-informed, evidence-based support for anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, cultural or religious concerns, LGBTQIA+ experiences, substance use, chronic health conditions, and more. Get in touch for a free 15 minute consultation today.
(03) 9909 8812 View (03) 9909 8812
Photo of Caroline Spiers, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Caroline Spiers
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? Effective therapy will allow you space to talk and be heard and validated, guide you at your own pace on your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? Effective therapy will allow you space to talk and be heard and validated, guide you at your own pace on your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
(03) 7003 2855 View (03) 7003 2855
Photo of Daniela Miszkinis - Daniela Miszkinis, Counsellor & Art Therapist., Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Daniela Miszkinis, Counsellor & Art Therapist.
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Holistic Counsellor with specialisation in Art Therapy (Master of Art Therapy, La Trobe Uni) and Clinical Counselling & Supervision (ACA). My areas of expertise include: DBT-informed Art Therapy and Jungian psychodynamic client-centred methods. My holistic approach supports the whole person, not just mental health needs. I consider physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing of my clients. I strive to create a space in which my clients can rediscover their own innate healing power, in order to bring about a feeling of wholeness and integrity.
I am a Holistic Counsellor with specialisation in Art Therapy (Master of Art Therapy, La Trobe Uni) and Clinical Counselling & Supervision (ACA). My areas of expertise include: DBT-informed Art Therapy and Jungian psychodynamic client-centred methods. My holistic approach supports the whole person, not just mental health needs. I consider physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing of my clients. I strive to create a space in which my clients can rediscover their own innate healing power, in order to bring about a feeling of wholeness and integrity.
(03) 7003 2809 View (03) 7003 2809
Photo of Isy Stoner - Counselling and Somatics with Isy Stoner, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Counselling and Somatics with Isy Stoner
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Isy supports client's in feeling more connected, safe and inspired. In therapy Isy will hold space for you, and accompany you to navigate finding more ease and contentment in the face of challenges, change and conflict. Isy aims to equip clients with embodied skills for wellbeing and resilience. Isy holds the intention that over time, client's might feel less need for regular individual therapy, and instead hopes to help them access a diverse network of support in their lives.
Isy supports client's in feeling more connected, safe and inspired. In therapy Isy will hold space for you, and accompany you to navigate finding more ease and contentment in the face of challenges, change and conflict. Isy aims to equip clients with embodied skills for wellbeing and resilience. Isy holds the intention that over time, client's might feel less need for regular individual therapy, and instead hopes to help them access a diverse network of support in their lives.
0433 532 932 View 0433 532 932
Photo of Phuong Tran, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Phuong Tran
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
She supports people through major life transitions and the emotional impact of chronic or terminal illness, and works deeply with chronic pain and palliative care, offering compassionate, dignified support to individuals and families.
Phuong Tran is a compassionate and experienced clinical psychotherapist and counsellor with over 16 years of expertise. She specialises in helping individuals navigate emotional, mental, and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions, etc. Phuong provides a safe, supportive space for healing and growth. Clients come to her feeling overwhelmed, seeking not only relief but also personal growth, clarity, and purpose. Phuong’s holistic, culturally sensitive approach empowers them to regain control, build emotional resilience, and achieve lasting well-being.
She supports people through major life transitions and the emotional impact of chronic or terminal illness, and works deeply with chronic pain and palliative care, offering compassionate, dignified support to individuals and families.
Phuong Tran is a compassionate and experienced clinical psychotherapist and counsellor with over 16 years of expertise. She specialises in helping individuals navigate emotional, mental, and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions, etc. Phuong provides a safe, supportive space for healing and growth. Clients come to her feeling overwhelmed, seeking not only relief but also personal growth, clarity, and purpose. Phuong’s holistic, culturally sensitive approach empowers them to regain control, build emotional resilience, and achieve lasting well-being.
(03) 7302 8767 View (03) 7302 8767
Photo of Vanessa Del Valle - Vanessa Del Valle from Wellness & Co., Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Vanessa Del Valle from Wellness & Co.
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Imagine feeling overwhelmed, lonely, unsupported, burdened by grief or mental health issues. These challenges can leave you feeling lost and stuck in your current circumstances. The goal is to find hope, purpose, and a healthier life. Vanessa Del Valle at Wellness & Co. understands these struggles and provides the support and guidance needed to navigate these challenges and emerge stronger.
Imagine feeling overwhelmed, lonely, unsupported, burdened by grief or mental health issues. These challenges can leave you feeling lost and stuck in your current circumstances. The goal is to find hope, purpose, and a healthier life. Vanessa Del Valle at Wellness & Co. understands these struggles and provides the support and guidance needed to navigate these challenges and emerge stronger.
(03) 7003 2935 View (03) 7003 2935

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melinda Brown, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Melinda Brown
Counsellor, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Living with chronic pain or illness can often mean looking “fine” on the outside while carrying an ongoing physical and emotional load that others do not see.
Counselling offers a space to make sense of what this experience has been like for you; how it affects your emotions, relationships, and daily life. My aim is to help you feel more steady in the middle of something that can feel unpredictable, more able to get through difficult days, and less alone in carrying something that is often invisible to others.
Living with chronic pain or illness can often mean looking “fine” on the outside while carrying an ongoing physical and emotional load that others do not see.
Counselling offers a space to make sense of what this experience has been like for you; how it affects your emotions, relationships, and daily life. My aim is to help you feel more steady in the middle of something that can feel unpredictable, more able to get through difficult days, and less alone in carrying something that is often invisible to others.
(07) 2801 7473 View (07) 2801 7473
Photo of Coralie Ponsinet, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Coralie Ponsinet
Counsellor, ACA-L1
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a particular interest in supporting adolescents and adults who: • Have never been to therapy or have felt that previous therapy attempts did not work for them • Identify as womxn, LGBTIQ+ • Have experienced gender-based violence • Live with chronic pain and illness • Have migrated to Australia or Tasmania from overseas or interstate
I am an authentic and bubbly French-Australian human who made the decision to become a counsellor after my own lived experiences of mental and physical health struggles. Born in rural France, where none ever talked about mental health, I began my adult life as a high-achieving corporate professional who believed the only approach to life’s problems was to “get on with it” and just find a way to keep going. Until I realised this didn’t actually work effectively or wholeheartedly and discovered that mental health is a real, normal, valid part of being a human. I now walk the talk and value my physical, mental, emotional health.
I have a particular interest in supporting adolescents and adults who: • Have never been to therapy or have felt that previous therapy attempts did not work for them • Identify as womxn, LGBTIQ+ • Have experienced gender-based violence • Live with chronic pain and illness • Have migrated to Australia or Tasmania from overseas or interstate
I am an authentic and bubbly French-Australian human who made the decision to become a counsellor after my own lived experiences of mental and physical health struggles. Born in rural France, where none ever talked about mental health, I began my adult life as a high-achieving corporate professional who believed the only approach to life’s problems was to “get on with it” and just find a way to keep going. Until I realised this didn’t actually work effectively or wholeheartedly and discovered that mental health is a real, normal, valid part of being a human. I now walk the talk and value my physical, mental, emotional health.
(03) 7003 2464 View (03) 7003 2464
Photo of Joyce Ma, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Joyce Ma
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Joyce is an Australian Registered Psychologist with a compassionate, empathic and client-focused approach to counselling. Joyce is approachable and warm-hearted - she listens to her clients and works through the difficulties that they are facing. Joyce speaks two languages: English and Chinese (Fluent Cantonese and some Mandarin). Joyce’s goal is to help as many people presenting with psychological difficulties as possible, getting through hard times together and promote wellbeing and happiness.
Joyce is an Australian Registered Psychologist with a compassionate, empathic and client-focused approach to counselling. Joyce is approachable and warm-hearted - she listens to her clients and works through the difficulties that they are facing. Joyce speaks two languages: English and Chinese (Fluent Cantonese and some Mandarin). Joyce’s goal is to help as many people presenting with psychological difficulties as possible, getting through hard times together and promote wellbeing and happiness.
1800 327 477 View 1800 327 477
Photo of Bella Guilfoyle, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Bella Guilfoyle
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, emotional distress, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, chronic pain, chronic illness, and significant life transitions, including pregnancy and postpartum.
Hello, and welcome. I offer integrative psychotherapy with a strong focus on eco-therapy, supporting clients through sessions held in natural outdoor environments as well as online. My work is person-centred, trauma-informed, and grounded in mind–body awareness and nervous system regulation. Being in nature can gently support feelings of safety, connection, and emotional balance, creating a different and often deeply calming therapeutic experience.
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, emotional distress, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, chronic pain, chronic illness, and significant life transitions, including pregnancy and postpartum.
Hello, and welcome. I offer integrative psychotherapy with a strong focus on eco-therapy, supporting clients through sessions held in natural outdoor environments as well as online. My work is person-centred, trauma-informed, and grounded in mind–body awareness and nervous system regulation. Being in nature can gently support feelings of safety, connection, and emotional balance, creating a different and often deeply calming therapeutic experience.
(07) 2100 4252 View (07) 2100 4252

See more therapy options for Footscray

Chronic Pain Therapists
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.