Chronic Illness Counselling in Bristol

See all counsellors in Bristol
Photo of Dr. Sue Egan - Counselling Psychologist, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Dr. Sue Egan - Counselling Psychologist
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified
Bristol BS10  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in traumatic grief, chronic illness , complex trauma, abuse and anxiety.
There is hope. Although it might not be possible to forget life's challenges completely, it is possible to manage them so you can live life again with the volume turned down on the past. My role is to facilitate a safe, supportive space where you can begin to heal from life's traumas and remember who you are. I value doing all I can to offer you an integrated approach assessing your past, present and future using counselling and psychological theories. As the client, the time we have will be entirely yours, as I assist and guide you to uncover the way forward.
I specialise in traumatic grief, chronic illness , complex trauma, abuse and anxiety.
There is hope. Although it might not be possible to forget life's challenges completely, it is possible to manage them so you can live life again with the volume turned down on the past. My role is to facilitate a safe, supportive space where you can begin to heal from life's traumas and remember who you are. I value doing all I can to offer you an integrated approach assessing your past, present and future using counselling and psychological theories. As the client, the time we have will be entirely yours, as I assist and guide you to uncover the way forward.
01432 808347 View 01432 808347
Photo of Dr Kate Rhodes Online Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Dr Kate Rhodes Online Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified
Bristol BS1  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Dr. Kate Rhodes, a Clinical Psychologist offering online video therapy to adults & young people across the UK. I have over 15 years’ experience working in the NHS with people from a broad range of backgrounds & complexity levels. I have a particular interest in trauma and difficult life events and enjoy working with clients using EMDR to make huge changes to their lives. I have vast experience in health psychology including chronic illness , sexual health, weight management & disordered eating, pain management, obstetrics & gynaecology, palliative & bereavement, healthy living & behaviour change.
Hello, I am Dr. Kate Rhodes, a Clinical Psychologist offering online video therapy to adults & young people across the UK. I have over 15 years’ experience working in the NHS with people from a broad range of backgrounds & complexity levels. I have a particular interest in trauma and difficult life events and enjoy working with clients using EMDR to make huge changes to their lives. I have vast experience in health psychology including chronic illness , sexual health, weight management & disordered eating, pain management, obstetrics & gynaecology, palliative & bereavement, healthy living & behaviour change.
01656 334536 View 01656 334536
Photo of Jacqui Miller, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Jacqui Miller
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
Bristol BS3  (Online Only)
Do you have anxiety, or low mood? I can support you to explore why and help you to manage difficult thoughts and feelings that may be holding you back. I also welcome clients living with chronic illness , as well as anyone experiencing issues relating to difference, such as neurodivergence. I have a particular interest in counselling people (or carers of people) who have recently received a diagnosis and negotiating what that means for them. You may be looking for help with acceptance, ways to manage, loss, life changes, or problems relating to work, home, relationships or self-identity. You may just want a place to talk.
Do you have anxiety, or low mood? I can support you to explore why and help you to manage difficult thoughts and feelings that may be holding you back. I also welcome clients living with chronic illness , as well as anyone experiencing issues relating to difference, such as neurodivergence. I have a particular interest in counselling people (or carers of people) who have recently received a diagnosis and negotiating what that means for them. You may be looking for help with acceptance, ways to manage, loss, life changes, or problems relating to work, home, relationships or self-identity. You may just want a place to talk.
01380 716955 View 01380 716955
Photo of Ashlyn Firkins, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Ashlyn Firkins
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified
Bristol BS16  (Online Only)
I have a strong belief that people are intrinsically resilient & resourceful & that under the right therapeutic conditions, emotional suffering can be reduced & fulfilling lives, lived out. My intention is to provide a safe, hopeful space for people to explore how they would like to be in the wider world & practical ways to achieve this. Since 2014 I have worked in a variety of NHS settings, using talking therapies to support individuals navigate a range of emotional & physical health difficulties of varying complexicities. These difficulties include: anxiety, low mood, trauma, chronic-illnesses, relationship and employment issues.
I have a strong belief that people are intrinsically resilient & resourceful & that under the right therapeutic conditions, emotional suffering can be reduced & fulfilling lives, lived out. My intention is to provide a safe, hopeful space for people to explore how they would like to be in the wider world & practical ways to achieve this. Since 2014 I have worked in a variety of NHS settings, using talking therapies to support individuals navigate a range of emotional & physical health difficulties of varying complexicities. These difficulties include: anxiety, low mood, trauma, chronic-illnesses, relationship and employment issues.
0117 463 7124 View 0117 463 7124
Photo of Dr Lucy Kozlowski, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Dr Lucy Kozlowski
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified
Bristol BS35  (Online Only)
I am the Service Lead for Third Wave Psychologist, an online clinical psychology & counselling practice. My professional areas of expertise include long-term physical health conditions ( incl. long covid, pain, fatigue, IBS, diabetes, obesity & neurological conditions- stroke, MS, Parkinsons) & perinatal mental health (before, during & after birth). We also specialise in staff wellbeing (healthcare & non-healthcare staff), supporting people experiencing stress, low mood, anger, adjustment, anxiety, trauma, bereavement & grief & self-esteem/confidence issues.
I am the Service Lead for Third Wave Psychologist, an online clinical psychology & counselling practice. My professional areas of expertise include long-term physical health conditions ( incl. long covid, pain, fatigue, IBS, diabetes, obesity & neurological conditions- stroke, MS, Parkinsons) & perinatal mental health (before, during & after birth). We also specialise in staff wellbeing (healthcare & non-healthcare staff), supporting people experiencing stress, low mood, anger, adjustment, anxiety, trauma, bereavement & grief & self-esteem/confidence issues.
0117 456 2479 View 0117 456 2479
Photo of Full Circle Counselling, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Full Circle Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified
Bristol BS20
With no waiting list and sessions available I can offer counselling & hypnotherapy to help you recover from depression, fear and anxiety through motivation & perspective thus finding the joy that you once had in your life. Anxiety, fear & hopelessness are some emotions that can linger post traumatic events, again I can help you overcome these symptoms. Loss of a loved one or diagnoses of a life limiting condition are devastating events & the pain of this sometimes unbearable. Feelings of guilt, anger & grief can become apparent & each individual responds differently. I am here to help you through your concerns of the future.
With no waiting list and sessions available I can offer counselling & hypnotherapy to help you recover from depression, fear and anxiety through motivation & perspective thus finding the joy that you once had in your life. Anxiety, fear & hopelessness are some emotions that can linger post traumatic events, again I can help you overcome these symptoms. Loss of a loved one or diagnoses of a life limiting condition are devastating events & the pain of this sometimes unbearable. Feelings of guilt, anger & grief can become apparent & each individual responds differently. I am here to help you through your concerns of the future.
0117 325 2304 View 0117 325 2304
Photo of Dr Michelle Griffiths, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Dr Michelle Griffiths
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified
Bristol BS9
I am a fully registered and insured Practitioner Psychologist and Chartered Psychologist, specialising in a variety of biological, psychological and social difficulties. I have over 15 years’ experience of supporting people to develop strategies to live with mental health issues (anxiety and depression, stress, worry or panic, health-related anxiety and depression), long-term conditions (e.g. thyroid disorders, pain, fatigue, COPD, PMDD, cancer and Long Covid) and challenging life circumstances.
I am a fully registered and insured Practitioner Psychologist and Chartered Psychologist, specialising in a variety of biological, psychological and social difficulties. I have over 15 years’ experience of supporting people to develop strategies to live with mental health issues (anxiety and depression, stress, worry or panic, health-related anxiety and depression), long-term conditions (e.g. thyroid disorders, pain, fatigue, COPD, PMDD, cancer and Long Covid) and challenging life circumstances.
0117 463 0225 View 0117 463 0225
Photo of Meirav Dagan, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Meirav Dagan
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified
Bristol BS6
Are you struggling with issues related to anxiety, distress, or major life changes? Have you recently been diagnosed with Physical Health Condition or find it hard to adjust to the impact of your Conditions? There comes a time when a professional support is needed to learn how to cope with your life’s challenges. I am a Chartered Health Psychologist and a CBT therapist. Over the years I have worked extensively with people coping with different psychological symptoms (e.g. worries, general anxiety, stress, OCD, phobias, health worries, sleep problems) and physical health conditions (e.g. Cancer, Cardiac conditions, Diabetes, IBD).
Are you struggling with issues related to anxiety, distress, or major life changes? Have you recently been diagnosed with Physical Health Condition or find it hard to adjust to the impact of your Conditions? There comes a time when a professional support is needed to learn how to cope with your life’s challenges. I am a Chartered Health Psychologist and a CBT therapist. Over the years I have worked extensively with people coping with different psychological symptoms (e.g. worries, general anxiety, stress, OCD, phobias, health worries, sleep problems) and physical health conditions (e.g. Cancer, Cardiac conditions, Diabetes, IBD).
0117 456 5103 View 0117 456 5103
Photo of Dr Bishnu Upadhaya, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Dr Bishnu Upadhaya
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Bristol BS7  (Online Only)
An enthusiastic, skilled and well-motivated Psychological, Neuropsychological, Integrated Medicine and healthcare consultant with more than 19 years’ experiences, promoting the welfare of patients, families, and vulnerable people. Experienced in providing specialist Neuropsychological, Psychological, Herbal Medicine, Naturopathic and Homeopathic Medicine Assessments, Consultation and Treatments of direct and referred clients based upon the appropriate use, interpretation and integration of complex data from a psychological and holistic approach and treatment and tasting.
An enthusiastic, skilled and well-motivated Psychological, Neuropsychological, Integrated Medicine and healthcare consultant with more than 19 years’ experiences, promoting the welfare of patients, families, and vulnerable people. Experienced in providing specialist Neuropsychological, Psychological, Herbal Medicine, Naturopathic and Homeopathic Medicine Assessments, Consultation and Treatments of direct and referred clients based upon the appropriate use, interpretation and integration of complex data from a psychological and holistic approach and treatment and tasting.
0843 289 1426 View 0843 289 1426
Photo of Dr Paul Bradley-Hoffman, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Dr Paul Bradley-Hoffman
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified
Bristol BS1  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist and intensive short term dynamic psychotherapist (ISTDP). I work with adults and older people but have experience of working with people across the life span with a range of challenges and difficulties. I can work with a broad range of psychological issues including but not limited to anxiety, panic attacks, treatment-resistant mood disorders, PTSD, relationship problems, intimacy & sexual problems, bereavement, substance misuse disorders, pain and living with chronic diseases, personality-related issues/disorders, functional neurological symptoms (FNS) & medically unexplained symptoms (MUS).
I am a clinical psychologist and intensive short term dynamic psychotherapist (ISTDP). I work with adults and older people but have experience of working with people across the life span with a range of challenges and difficulties. I can work with a broad range of psychological issues including but not limited to anxiety, panic attacks, treatment-resistant mood disorders, PTSD, relationship problems, intimacy & sexual problems, bereavement, substance misuse disorders, pain and living with chronic diseases, personality-related issues/disorders, functional neurological symptoms (FNS) & medically unexplained symptoms (MUS).
029 2271 0247 View 029 2271 0247
Photo of Dr Emily McBride, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Dr Emily McBride
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified
Bristol BS1  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you seeking a safe space with an experienced psychologist? You might be feeling overwhelmed, low, frustrated, guilty, or anxious. Perhaps you feel you've lost part of your identity, impacting on your sense of purpose and self-worth. I know it can be incredibly hard to express what you truly feel and need to others. I offer a compassionate space for you to work through current issues, as well as difficulties from your past. I specialise in supporting people with long-term conditions (e.g. chronic pain, cancer, diabetes), and also work with a range of wider issues (e.g. PTSD and trauma).
Are you seeking a safe space with an experienced psychologist? You might be feeling overwhelmed, low, frustrated, guilty, or anxious. Perhaps you feel you've lost part of your identity, impacting on your sense of purpose and self-worth. I know it can be incredibly hard to express what you truly feel and need to others. I offer a compassionate space for you to work through current issues, as well as difficulties from your past. I specialise in supporting people with long-term conditions (e.g. chronic pain, cancer, diabetes), and also work with a range of wider issues (e.g. PTSD and trauma).
020 3995 0870 View 020 3995 0870
Photo of Dr Holly Milling: Sleep Specialist + Adult Adhd Assessments, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Dr Holly Milling: Sleep Specialist + Adult Adhd Assessments
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified
Bristol BS1  (Online Only)
Dr Holly Milling B.Sc., M.sc., DClin.Psy, PG.Dip. is a registered Clinical Psychologist, Accredited Cognitive Behavioural therapist, and Mindfulness teacher. She is a trusted and experienced Behavioural Sleep Medicine specialist with years of experience working with neurodiversity. You will receive compassionate & evidence-based treatment from Holly, all from the comfort of your own home or office (via our online clinic). It's easy to get started; simply book a free 15 minute consultation where you can discuss your needs with Holly and get booked in for assessment and support.
Dr Holly Milling B.Sc., M.sc., DClin.Psy, PG.Dip. is a registered Clinical Psychologist, Accredited Cognitive Behavioural therapist, and Mindfulness teacher. She is a trusted and experienced Behavioural Sleep Medicine specialist with years of experience working with neurodiversity. You will receive compassionate & evidence-based treatment from Holly, all from the comfort of your own home or office (via our online clinic). It's easy to get started; simply book a free 15 minute consultation where you can discuss your needs with Holly and get booked in for assessment and support.
020 4538 3439 View 020 4538 3439
Photo of Jennifer Edge, Psychotherapist in Bristol, England
Jennifer Edge
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS1
Are you experiencing distress or dissatisfaction in your life no matter how hard you try? This may have been going on for a long time or perhaps you're left feeling out-of-control after a loved-one dying, a big change happening in your life, or maybe illness striking you or somebody that you care for? Perhaps nothing has happened, but you feel stuck and unhappy with your life and relationships? Are you exhausted taking care of others needs whilst ignoring your own? Whatever your situation you would like to find greater ease within yourself and have more satisfying relationships with other people in your life.
Are you experiencing distress or dissatisfaction in your life no matter how hard you try? This may have been going on for a long time or perhaps you're left feeling out-of-control after a loved-one dying, a big change happening in your life, or maybe illness striking you or somebody that you care for? Perhaps nothing has happened, but you feel stuck and unhappy with your life and relationships? Are you exhausted taking care of others needs whilst ignoring your own? Whatever your situation you would like to find greater ease within yourself and have more satisfying relationships with other people in your life.
01225 530233 View 01225 530233
Photo of Dr Lorraine Haye, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Dr Lorraine Haye
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified
Bristol BS8
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience in mental and physical health services with a range of presenting difficulties. I also have specialist training and experience in providing neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation. I offer a free 15 minute telephone call as an opportunity to ask any questions to identify if we could work together. This can then be followed by a more detailed assessment appointment. After this regular weekly sessions can be arranged to work on your identified goals.
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience in mental and physical health services with a range of presenting difficulties. I also have specialist training and experience in providing neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation. I offer a free 15 minute telephone call as an opportunity to ask any questions to identify if we could work together. This can then be followed by a more detailed assessment appointment. After this regular weekly sessions can be arranged to work on your identified goals.
01707 954068 View 01707 954068
Photo of Tom Abbott, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Tom Abbott
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified
Bristol BS7
What brings you to counselling could be any number of reasons: You may have experienced the loss of a loved one; perhaps your life is in such chaos you can no longer see the forest for the trees; or, you may simply wish to look at yourself and your patterns of behaviour in a clearer light. What I offer is a space for you to come to terms with your life, free of judgement, so that you can live it to the fullest.
What brings you to counselling could be any number of reasons: You may have experienced the loss of a loved one; perhaps your life is in such chaos you can no longer see the forest for the trees; or, you may simply wish to look at yourself and your patterns of behaviour in a clearer light. What I offer is a space for you to come to terms with your life, free of judgement, so that you can live it to the fullest.
0117 463 5738 View 0117 463 5738
Photo of Marie-Claire Fitzpatrick, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Marie-Claire Fitzpatrick
Psychologist, DCounsPsych
Verified
Bristol BS7
Coming to therapy can feel like a big decision and finding the right therapist for you can sometimes feel like a daunting task. I believe that the therapy relationship is key to personal growth, feeling understood, supported and helped through challenging and distressing life experiences. I offer a safe and confidential space for people who are seeking support with the experiences of emotional distress and challenges that most of us face at various junctures in life. I am a compassionate, warm and approachable therapist and we will work together in a collaborative way to find what works best for you
Coming to therapy can feel like a big decision and finding the right therapist for you can sometimes feel like a daunting task. I believe that the therapy relationship is key to personal growth, feeling understood, supported and helped through challenging and distressing life experiences. I offer a safe and confidential space for people who are seeking support with the experiences of emotional distress and challenges that most of us face at various junctures in life. I am a compassionate, warm and approachable therapist and we will work together in a collaborative way to find what works best for you
0117 325 4350 View 0117 325 4350
Photo of Kat Wojciechowska, Psychotherapist in Bristol, England
Kat Wojciechowska
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified
Bristol BS3
My name is Kat. I am an integrative counsellor/ Counselling Psychologist in my final year of study. The primacy of relatedness and quality of relationship remains at the centre of my therapeutic practice. The therapy result is our joint effort, and you are an expert in your life. I offer non-judgmental, emphatic help. A safe, confidential space where you can explore existing difficulties and their meaning in the context of your life.
My name is Kat. I am an integrative counsellor/ Counselling Psychologist in my final year of study. The primacy of relatedness and quality of relationship remains at the centre of my therapeutic practice. The therapy result is our joint effort, and you are an expert in your life. I offer non-judgmental, emphatic help. A safe, confidential space where you can explore existing difficulties and their meaning in the context of your life.
01275 402918 x0044 View 01275 402918 x0044
Photo of Indigo Moon, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Indigo Moon
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified
Bristol BS30
I offer a safe, compassionate non-judgmental space for the client to explore whatever is troubling them Through this work the client will hopefully achieve their desired outcome and restore some peace in their life. My predominate client base has been around Domestic abuse and Addiction, although i also have experience in loss and grief , family issues, anxiety and depression and peri and postnatal illness. I have several rooms i can rent in various areas of Bristol. However at my Patchway office I am able to offer evening appointments.I use many different approaches in my client work dependent of the clients needs.
I offer a safe, compassionate non-judgmental space for the client to explore whatever is troubling them Through this work the client will hopefully achieve their desired outcome and restore some peace in their life. My predominate client base has been around Domestic abuse and Addiction, although i also have experience in loss and grief , family issues, anxiety and depression and peri and postnatal illness. I have several rooms i can rent in various areas of Bristol. However at my Patchway office I am able to offer evening appointments.I use many different approaches in my client work dependent of the clients needs.
0117 325 3819 View 0117 325 3819
Photo of Stephen Gallini, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Stephen Gallini
Counsellor, MA, HCPC-Music Therap.
Verified
Bristol BS2
I am an integrative counsellor, HCPC registered Music Therapist and Neurologic Music Therapist, with a BSc in Psychology, MSc in Psychology of Pathological addictions, and further training, amongst others, in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Metacognitive Therapy. Currently, I'm also working on completing my MSc in Clinical Psychology. Within a holistic person-centred approach, I include in my practice techniques based on mindfulness and breathwork, and, as a Registered Nurse, I bring a well-rounded understanding of health and patient care into my practice.
I am an integrative counsellor, HCPC registered Music Therapist and Neurologic Music Therapist, with a BSc in Psychology, MSc in Psychology of Pathological addictions, and further training, amongst others, in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Metacognitive Therapy. Currently, I'm also working on completing my MSc in Clinical Psychology. Within a holistic person-centred approach, I include in my practice techniques based on mindfulness and breathwork, and, as a Registered Nurse, I bring a well-rounded understanding of health and patient care into my practice.
0117 456 2147 View 0117 456 2147
Photo of Melissa Kent, Psychotherapist in Bristol, England
Melissa Kent
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS15  (Online Only)
I am here for you. I understand the busy demands of day-to-day life and know how challenging it can be to find space for self-care. My services are based on the premise, that you are the expert in knowing yourself; I’m simply here to guide you in the process. As a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner, I am a qualified Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapist, trained in delivering Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) interventions working across all ages.
I am here for you. I understand the busy demands of day-to-day life and know how challenging it can be to find space for self-care. My services are based on the premise, that you are the expert in knowing yourself; I’m simply here to guide you in the process. As a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner, I am a qualified Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapist, trained in delivering Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) interventions working across all ages.
0117 463 0199 View 0117 463 0199

See more therapy options for Bristol

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.