Chronic Illness Counselling in Leigh

Photo of Jordan Howarth, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Jordan Howarth
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Leigh WN7  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel that you worry too much? Have people ever told you that you need to "Worry Less"? What about feeling like a failure or that you aren't good enough? Or feeling like you just don't have the energy or the motivation to get things done? These are problems that my clients share time and time again and I'm here to let you know that it doesn't have to feel like this. Imagine a future where you don't feel isolated, where you're proactive in challenging your negative thoughts, where you're living the life the way that YOU want to, a life in which you are doing the things that are meaningful for YOU.
Do you ever feel that you worry too much? Have people ever told you that you need to "Worry Less"? What about feeling like a failure or that you aren't good enough? Or feeling like you just don't have the energy or the motivation to get things done? These are problems that my clients share time and time again and I'm here to let you know that it doesn't have to feel like this. Imagine a future where you don't feel isolated, where you're proactive in challenging your negative thoughts, where you're living the life the way that YOU want to, a life in which you are doing the things that are meaningful for YOU.
01732 443369 View 01732 443369
Photo of Catriona (Katie) Laird - Wellbeing North West Limited, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Wellbeing North West Limited
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leigh WN7
It’s hard to believe that your feelings are worth something when you’re depressed, anxious, stuck or feeling trapped with self-critical thoughts and belief you have no control. But I’m here to tell you that it just isn’t the case, I’m here and I’m asking you to let me listen. With over 16years of experience in Mental Health I aim to help you navigate your way through your problems and find personal resolve. Regardless of the journey, therapy is tailored to be supportive, to suit your needs, to help you reach your desired outcome and by the end of our time together your journey will be something you can have pride in.
It’s hard to believe that your feelings are worth something when you’re depressed, anxious, stuck or feeling trapped with self-critical thoughts and belief you have no control. But I’m here to tell you that it just isn’t the case, I’m here and I’m asking you to let me listen. With over 16years of experience in Mental Health I aim to help you navigate your way through your problems and find personal resolve. Regardless of the journey, therapy is tailored to be supportive, to suit your needs, to help you reach your desired outcome and by the end of our time together your journey will be something you can have pride in.
01925 984042 View 01925 984042
Photo of Robynne Wood - Robynne Wood Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Robynne Wood Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leigh WN7
Do you feel impacted by difficult life problems as a result of coping with traumatic experiences, managing depression/anxiety or dealing with difficult emotions? Many people find it easier to talk to someone who they see as being separate or an "outsider" to their life rather than friends or family. I can help you make sense of events (past and ongoing) in your life and resolve complicated feelings linked to these. However, you don't have to be at crisis point or feel unwell to have counselling! Therapy can be used to better understanding of yourself, working to change things you want, increasing your self-esteem and for self-care.
Do you feel impacted by difficult life problems as a result of coping with traumatic experiences, managing depression/anxiety or dealing with difficult emotions? Many people find it easier to talk to someone who they see as being separate or an "outsider" to their life rather than friends or family. I can help you make sense of events (past and ongoing) in your life and resolve complicated feelings linked to these. However, you don't have to be at crisis point or feel unwell to have counselling! Therapy can be used to better understanding of yourself, working to change things you want, increasing your self-esteem and for self-care.
0161 524 0168 View 0161 524 0168

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rachel Hawkins, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Rachel Hawkins
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester M30
I am a Trainee Health Psychologist supervised by a Principle Health Psychologist in the NHS and with a private practice. My training is accredited by the British Psychological Society. I support people with chronic illness such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease and other chronic bowel conditions. I have lived experience from close family members with IBD and bowel conditions, hence my training in this area. I would like to support you to get back to living the life you want, by helping you take control of the things that you can and to help you live a life which is meaningful to you.
I am a Trainee Health Psychologist supervised by a Principle Health Psychologist in the NHS and with a private practice. My training is accredited by the British Psychological Society. I support people with chronic illness such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease and other chronic bowel conditions. I have lived experience from close family members with IBD and bowel conditions, hence my training in this area. I would like to support you to get back to living the life you want, by helping you take control of the things that you can and to help you live a life which is meaningful to you.
0161 524 7501 View 0161 524 7501
Photo of Lynne Christine Hutton, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Lynne Christine Hutton
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN6
I have a specialism in Bereavement and with clients bringing various issues: anxiety, depression, Suicidal thoughts, bereavement, stress, addictions,relationship issues including domestic violence, family issues, sexual/emotional/physical abuse, gender transitioning,bullying school/work, menopause, sexual difficulties, PTSD, chronic illness/pain, divorce.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions? I aim to provide a safe space, and my full presence to listen to you. I am a Person-Centred/Experiential Counsellor with a 1st Class BA (Hons) Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, working in an emotion-focused way. I am passionate about counselling. I offer a warm, empathic, non-judgemental space, which will hopefully enable you to share whatever you wish, to help to empower you to make positive change in your life. specialisms:Bereavement, Neurodiversity, Anxiety, Self-harm, Depression,Children in care/ safeguarding/Child Protection,victims of the Manchester terrorist attack.
I have a specialism in Bereavement and with clients bringing various issues: anxiety, depression, Suicidal thoughts, bereavement, stress, addictions,relationship issues including domestic violence, family issues, sexual/emotional/physical abuse, gender transitioning,bullying school/work, menopause, sexual difficulties, PTSD, chronic illness/pain, divorce.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions? I aim to provide a safe space, and my full presence to listen to you. I am a Person-Centred/Experiential Counsellor with a 1st Class BA (Hons) Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, working in an emotion-focused way. I am passionate about counselling. I offer a warm, empathic, non-judgemental space, which will hopefully enable you to share whatever you wish, to help to empower you to make positive change in your life. specialisms:Bereavement, Neurodiversity, Anxiety, Self-harm, Depression,Children in care/ safeguarding/Child Protection,victims of the Manchester terrorist attack.
07723 712736 View 07723 712736
Photo of Bridget O'Toole, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Bridget O'Toole
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Manchester M32
Embark on a transformative journey with me. I offer both short and long-term support, drawing from research on childhood trauma and depression's impact on chronic illness. With specialised experience in neurological conditions, LGBTQ+ issues, and trauma, I offer genuine support, drawing from personal and professional insights. My approach fosters a genuine connection, creating a safe haven for exploration within a trauma-informed framework. I believe in the profound power of self-expression and acceptance, especially for those who find it challenging elsewhere.
Embark on a transformative journey with me. I offer both short and long-term support, drawing from research on childhood trauma and depression's impact on chronic illness. With specialised experience in neurological conditions, LGBTQ+ issues, and trauma, I offer genuine support, drawing from personal and professional insights. My approach fosters a genuine connection, creating a safe haven for exploration within a trauma-informed framework. I believe in the profound power of self-expression and acceptance, especially for those who find it challenging elsewhere.
01767 660594 View 01767 660594
Photo of Megan Bowes, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist
Megan Bowes
Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton BL6  (Online Only)
I am a Senior Health Psychologist specialising in Trauma, phobias and Chronic conditions. Together, we can work through any difficulties holding you back from living the life you'd like to lead. If you are struggling, either mentally or physically, please get in touch for a free consultation. I have worked across multiple NHS services including trauma, long-covid, rheumatology and chronic pain.
I am a Senior Health Psychologist specialising in Trauma, phobias and Chronic conditions. Together, we can work through any difficulties holding you back from living the life you'd like to lead. If you are struggling, either mentally or physically, please get in touch for a free consultation. I have worked across multiple NHS services including trauma, long-covid, rheumatology and chronic pain.
01253 835573 View 01253 835573
Photo of Lauren Gordon - Power Therapy UK, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Power Therapy UK
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bolton BL2  (Online Only)
Do you feel like a pressure cooker ready to explode? Do you feel lost and that every way you turn issues arise? Are you getting angry at people for no reason? Or feeling so down and desperate you don’t know which way to turn? It can be overwhelming sometimes even thinking about asking for help when as a culture we are supposed to be able to cope with everyday pressures. Life changing experiences and challenges such as loss, trauma or redundancy can cause unbelievable stresses on an already stressful life. It is all to easy to become stuck in a rut or to begin to struggle with daily life with all the competing pressures we face.
Do you feel like a pressure cooker ready to explode? Do you feel lost and that every way you turn issues arise? Are you getting angry at people for no reason? Or feeling so down and desperate you don’t know which way to turn? It can be overwhelming sometimes even thinking about asking for help when as a culture we are supposed to be able to cope with everyday pressures. Life changing experiences and challenges such as loss, trauma or redundancy can cause unbelievable stresses on an already stressful life. It is all to easy to become stuck in a rut or to begin to struggle with daily life with all the competing pressures we face.
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Photo of Rachel Leah Wesley - The Wellness Consultancy, MBACP, Psychotherapist
The Wellness Consultancy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bolton BL1
Waitlist for new clients
Often clients contact me when other therapy has not helped them in the way they had hoped. This is often due to the complexity of difficulties being layered perhaps in a history of trauma. Distress in the body and mind can be triggered by what appears to be something superficial. This can open up the past or come at a time when our emotional resilience is low so this event has a greater impact than it may have done. We can find ourselves not being able to function in our normal way. Many clients often identify as 'good copers' and those who 'just get on with it'. Perhaps we can't now - this is frightening and can derail us.
Often clients contact me when other therapy has not helped them in the way they had hoped. This is often due to the complexity of difficulties being layered perhaps in a history of trauma. Distress in the body and mind can be triggered by what appears to be something superficial. This can open up the past or come at a time when our emotional resilience is low so this event has a greater impact than it may have done. We can find ourselves not being able to function in our normal way. Many clients often identify as 'good copers' and those who 'just get on with it'. Perhaps we can't now - this is frightening and can derail us.
01204 238760 View 01204 238760
Photo of Dr Hoyin Chan, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Hoyin Chan
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sale M33
I am a Principal Clinical Psychologist and have worked in various mental health services in the NHS for over 20 years. I have worked in many clinical health services, including burns and plastics, respiratory, cancer and HIV services. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, CFT and ACT. I am passionate in working with people presenting with life-changing physical health conditions, relationships difficulties and low self-esteem. We will work together addressing your psychological needs, ranging from unmanageable stress to childhood trauma, to being stuck in patterns of unsuccessful or broken relationships, in addition to depression and anxiety.
I am a Principal Clinical Psychologist and have worked in various mental health services in the NHS for over 20 years. I have worked in many clinical health services, including burns and plastics, respiratory, cancer and HIV services. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, CFT and ACT. I am passionate in working with people presenting with life-changing physical health conditions, relationships difficulties and low self-esteem. We will work together addressing your psychological needs, ranging from unmanageable stress to childhood trauma, to being stuck in patterns of unsuccessful or broken relationships, in addition to depression and anxiety.
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Photo of Dr Anna Chisholm, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist
Dr Anna Chisholm
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Manchester M17
I provide support for people wanting to make a change to their lives in order to live well and live healthy. Changing an element of your lifestyle can be extremely challenging, for example managing your weight, stopping smoking or reducing alcohol consumption. Often these factors are tied up with the complexities of our lives, managing stress, living with illness, overcoming obstacles in our lives. I work with people to help them make lasting and meaningful changes to behaviours that are causing them difficulties and find ways to improve overall health and wellbeing.
I provide support for people wanting to make a change to their lives in order to live well and live healthy. Changing an element of your lifestyle can be extremely challenging, for example managing your weight, stopping smoking or reducing alcohol consumption. Often these factors are tied up with the complexities of our lives, managing stress, living with illness, overcoming obstacles in our lives. I work with people to help them make lasting and meaningful changes to behaviours that are causing them difficulties and find ways to improve overall health and wellbeing.
0161 850 4103 View 0161 850 4103
Photo of Jane Middlebrook, MA, Counsellor
Jane Middlebrook
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Bolton BL1  (Online Only)
I help people overcome general stress, anxieties, chronic pain and/or single-incident trauma using EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques). I work with all issues, but have a special interest in those related to medical procedures and processes, including pregnancy/adverse birth experiences. We can feel vulnerable, anxious or stressed when we have tests or treatment, diagnoses or long term conditions, and there are many potential triggers when attending healthcare settings. For some people this may result in avoiding healthcare altogether.
I help people overcome general stress, anxieties, chronic pain and/or single-incident trauma using EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques). I work with all issues, but have a special interest in those related to medical procedures and processes, including pregnancy/adverse birth experiences. We can feel vulnerable, anxious or stressed when we have tests or treatment, diagnoses or long term conditions, and there are many potential triggers when attending healthcare settings. For some people this may result in avoiding healthcare altogether.
0161 524 0564 View 0161 524 0564
Photo of Ildikó Ridley, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Ildikó Ridley
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Chorley PR7  (Online Only)
Are you trying to cope with stress, anxiety, or low mood? Are the events of your past negatively affecting your present life? Do you wish you had a more positive outlook on life that could help you feel better, and allow you to do what matters to you? Are you working towards a specific goal, or want to feel more in control of your life? I am a fully qualified, experienced Clinical Psychologist. I can offer flexible ways of working towards your goals, to help you make changes towards better psychological wellbeing and life satisfaction. I work in a person-centred, solution-focused way that is adapted to your presenting difficulties.
Are you trying to cope with stress, anxiety, or low mood? Are the events of your past negatively affecting your present life? Do you wish you had a more positive outlook on life that could help you feel better, and allow you to do what matters to you? Are you working towards a specific goal, or want to feel more in control of your life? I am a fully qualified, experienced Clinical Psychologist. I can offer flexible ways of working towards your goals, to help you make changes towards better psychological wellbeing and life satisfaction. I work in a person-centred, solution-focused way that is adapted to your presenting difficulties.
01204 929667 View 01204 929667
Photo of Gina Wieringa, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Gina Wieringa
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Lymm WA13
It can be hard to reach out for support, and even more difficult to trust a professional with your problems. I aim to offer a warm and supportive approach to help you to better understand your difficulties, and move towards a valued life. I am a clinical psychologist trained in several different therapeutic approaches, and hence I offer an integrative approach that is tailored according to the individual. I have experience working with both adults and children, with specialist interests in long-term conditions and neurological disorders (including stroke). I am currently doing a Postgraduate Diploma in Neuropsychology.
It can be hard to reach out for support, and even more difficult to trust a professional with your problems. I aim to offer a warm and supportive approach to help you to better understand your difficulties, and move towards a valued life. I am a clinical psychologist trained in several different therapeutic approaches, and hence I offer an integrative approach that is tailored according to the individual. I have experience working with both adults and children, with specialist interests in long-term conditions and neurological disorders (including stroke). I am currently doing a Postgraduate Diploma in Neuropsychology.
01925 933409 View 01925 933409
Photo of Gillian Rayner - Gillian Rayner Psychotherapy, and Supervision , PhD, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Gillian Rayner Psychotherapy, and Supervision
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrington WA2
I work with clients who have a wide variety of experiences, issues and needs. Many of my clients want to become less self critical and more accepting of themselves. They want to learn more about how their presenting issues connect together and what they can do to have better. Clients may want to understand themselves and their interactions with other people and enhance their self-esteem and confidence.
I work with clients who have a wide variety of experiences, issues and needs. Many of my clients want to become less self critical and more accepting of themselves. They want to learn more about how their presenting issues connect together and what they can do to have better. Clients may want to understand themselves and their interactions with other people and enhance their self-esteem and confidence.
01925 931604 View 01925 931604
Photo of Dr Aspasia Ftenou, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Aspasia Ftenou
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Manchester M32  (Online Only)
Perhaps you may feel anxious, worried or on edge? Maybe you struggle getting on with daily tasks or not enjoying things as much as you did? Do you have negative memories from the past that impact your life now? Or you may have negative thoughts about yourself which may affect your relationship with others? We may talk about your difficulties and set goals to help you in therapy. In our sessions you will experience acceptance and empathy so as to express your thoughts and feelings in a safe and warm space created by our therapeutic relationship.
Perhaps you may feel anxious, worried or on edge? Maybe you struggle getting on with daily tasks or not enjoying things as much as you did? Do you have negative memories from the past that impact your life now? Or you may have negative thoughts about yourself which may affect your relationship with others? We may talk about your difficulties and set goals to help you in therapy. In our sessions you will experience acceptance and empathy so as to express your thoughts and feelings in a safe and warm space created by our therapeutic relationship.
01707 240830 View 01707 240830
Photo of Sarah Preston, MBACP, Counsellor
Sarah Preston
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN5
If you are struggling with relationships, loss, stress, or feeling lost and overwhelmed, you might feel like you’re stuck, don’t know where to turn or how to move forward. Sometimes we don’t know what to say, how to say it or even fully understand what we are feeling; it’s often not just one thing that we are feeling but a complex mix of different emotions. Our sessions together will give you the opportunity to be heard, to explore your emotions and unpick the difficulties you are having.
If you are struggling with relationships, loss, stress, or feeling lost and overwhelmed, you might feel like you’re stuck, don’t know where to turn or how to move forward. Sometimes we don’t know what to say, how to say it or even fully understand what we are feeling; it’s often not just one thing that we are feeling but a complex mix of different emotions. Our sessions together will give you the opportunity to be heard, to explore your emotions and unpick the difficulties you are having.
01744 415882 View 01744 415882
Photo of Daniel Quinn, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Daniel Quinn
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Manchester M30
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a structured, psychological approach recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for the treatment of a number of common difficulties including: Depression, Panic Disorder, GAD (Worry) Social Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Health Anxiety and specific phobias. Additionally, I can offer support with issues such as low self esteem, anger, stress, poor sleep etc. You do not need a formal diagnosis, together we can collaboratively explore your thoughts and feelings.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a structured, psychological approach recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for the treatment of a number of common difficulties including: Depression, Panic Disorder, GAD (Worry) Social Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Health Anxiety and specific phobias. Additionally, I can offer support with issues such as low self esteem, anger, stress, poor sleep etc. You do not need a formal diagnosis, together we can collaboratively explore your thoughts and feelings.
0161 524 7167 View 0161 524 7167
Photo of James Donaldson - James Donaldson Therapy, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
James Donaldson Therapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Salford M6
Thanks for checking out my profile. Having delivered therapy to the Armed Forces community and NHS over the past 20 years I have had the privilege of supporting a broad range of people and their difficulties. Whether struggling with the impacts of earlier trauma, with the stuck feeling of unhappiness, or the fears of facing an uncertain future, I believe that finding acceptance of who you are is how we open the door to healing. I also look to enable you to find the goodness that lies within and to use this to live a more meaningful and rewarding life. Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or to arrange a consultation.
Thanks for checking out my profile. Having delivered therapy to the Armed Forces community and NHS over the past 20 years I have had the privilege of supporting a broad range of people and their difficulties. Whether struggling with the impacts of earlier trauma, with the stuck feeling of unhappiness, or the fears of facing an uncertain future, I believe that finding acceptance of who you are is how we open the door to healing. I also look to enable you to find the goodness that lies within and to use this to live a more meaningful and rewarding life. Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or to arrange a consultation.
01492 554991 View 01492 554991
Photo of Claire Duchateau, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Claire Duchateau
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Wigan WN5
Do you feel, undervalued, unheard, disillusioned, and stuck? Perhaps you are a French expat homesick and struggling to adapt in the UK? Or neuro-divergent not managing the complexities of work, emotions, relationships and life; Or LGBTQ battling against barriers and rejection or trying to come out? Maybe you have a sense that there is a lot more to life. Finding a therapist is hard. You have landed here with the hope of finding help and understanding, well done. Carrying our worries endlessly and alone is even harder.
Do you feel, undervalued, unheard, disillusioned, and stuck? Perhaps you are a French expat homesick and struggling to adapt in the UK? Or neuro-divergent not managing the complexities of work, emotions, relationships and life; Or LGBTQ battling against barriers and rejection or trying to come out? Maybe you have a sense that there is a lot more to life. Finding a therapist is hard. You have landed here with the hope of finding help and understanding, well done. Carrying our worries endlessly and alone is even harder.
01942 316297 View 01942 316297

See more therapy options for Leigh

Chronic Illness Counsellors

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.