Chronic Illness Counselling in Cheltenham

Photo of Dr Ashley Dawson, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Ashley Dawson
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Sometimes life can feel tough. Whether you are feeling anxious, alone, disempowered or vulnerable, finding it hard to manage or come to terms with something in your life, or struggling with a past trauma – I am committed to helping you explore and make sense of your experiences with the aim of finding a way to experience life differently. Whatever you are struggling with, I provide a safe, confidential, therapeutic space where you will be listened to with compassion, empathy and without judgement. Trusting someone new can be hard - I make every effort to help you feel cared for so that you can get the most of out therapy.
Sometimes life can feel tough. Whether you are feeling anxious, alone, disempowered or vulnerable, finding it hard to manage or come to terms with something in your life, or struggling with a past trauma – I am committed to helping you explore and make sense of your experiences with the aim of finding a way to experience life differently. Whatever you are struggling with, I provide a safe, confidential, therapeutic space where you will be listened to with compassion, empathy and without judgement. Trusting someone new can be hard - I make every effort to help you feel cared for so that you can get the most of out therapy.
01242 507981 View 01242 507981
Photo of Katrina Jones, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Katrina Jones
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Life is full of challenges, and we can all struggle to cope with the impact of difficult events or circumstances. Therapy can be a useful support in navigating tricky periods and can help people deal with distress in a way that minimises its impact on quality of life. I work with individuals in a collaborative way, using a process of formulation to develop a shared understanding of psychological difficulties. The direction and content of our work will depend on an individual’s personal goals for the future and can range from exploratory work to a more structured approach focusing on the development of self-management skills.
Life is full of challenges, and we can all struggle to cope with the impact of difficult events or circumstances. Therapy can be a useful support in navigating tricky periods and can help people deal with distress in a way that minimises its impact on quality of life. I work with individuals in a collaborative way, using a process of formulation to develop a shared understanding of psychological difficulties. The direction and content of our work will depend on an individual’s personal goals for the future and can range from exploratory work to a more structured approach focusing on the development of self-management skills.
01452 228699 View 01452 228699
Photo of Dr Sarah Whitson - Dr Sarah Whitson - The Cotswold Psychologist, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Sarah Whitson - The Cotswold Psychologist
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
When you struggle with emotional or cognitive changes - whether due to ADHD, a brain injury, or the fog of a long-term health condition - the world can feel like it wasn’t built for you. You might find yourself constantly 'masking' to fit in, feeling overwhelmed by tasks that seem simple to others, grieving the person you were before, or worrying about the future. If you are feeling overwhelmed by cognitive changes or frustrated by a life that feels out of sync with your goals, I am here to help you find clarity and self-compassion.
When you struggle with emotional or cognitive changes - whether due to ADHD, a brain injury, or the fog of a long-term health condition - the world can feel like it wasn’t built for you. You might find yourself constantly 'masking' to fit in, feeling overwhelmed by tasks that seem simple to others, grieving the person you were before, or worrying about the future. If you are feeling overwhelmed by cognitive changes or frustrated by a life that feels out of sync with your goals, I am here to help you find clarity and self-compassion.
01242 502006 View 01242 502006
Photo of Elizabeth Hale, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Elizabeth Hale
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Serves Area
I work with adult clients who feel they need some help taking care of their psychological well-being. I can help with: Anxiety; social anxiety; health anxiety; stress and "burnout". Low mood and depression. I can work with clients to achieve life transitions and promote compassionate self-care. I have expertise in working with people who have chronic physical health conditions, particularly rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders, chronic pain; fibromyalgia; chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME) and can assist in the management of "long covid". I use Mindfulness and provide a future-focused therapeutic approach.
I work with adult clients who feel they need some help taking care of their psychological well-being. I can help with: Anxiety; social anxiety; health anxiety; stress and "burnout". Low mood and depression. I can work with clients to achieve life transitions and promote compassionate self-care. I have expertise in working with people who have chronic physical health conditions, particularly rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders, chronic pain; fibromyalgia; chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME) and can assist in the management of "long covid". I use Mindfulness and provide a future-focused therapeutic approach.
01386 576909 View 01386 576909
Photo of Melissa Langridge, Counsellor, MBACP
Melissa Langridge
Counsellor, MBACP
Hi! I’m a qualified counsellor (BACP) and working towards accreditation as a psychotherapist (UKCP). Coming to therapy is often a new and daunting experience; you might have a very clear goal that you want to work towards, or you might know that something needs to change but be unsure what. That’s okay! I will work with you to explore what might be keeping you stuck and help you decide what comes next. I believe in building a therapeutic relationship based on trust and authenticity to meet you where you are and create a space where it is safe to be you. I aim to honour all parts of you and explore your unique experiences.
Hi! I’m a qualified counsellor (BACP) and working towards accreditation as a psychotherapist (UKCP). Coming to therapy is often a new and daunting experience; you might have a very clear goal that you want to work towards, or you might know that something needs to change but be unsure what. That’s okay! I will work with you to explore what might be keeping you stuck and help you decide what comes next. I believe in building a therapeutic relationship based on trust and authenticity to meet you where you are and create a space where it is safe to be you. I aim to honour all parts of you and explore your unique experiences.
01905 674878 View 01905 674878
Photo of Claire King, Counsellor, MBACP
Claire King
Counsellor, MBACP
Counselling for adults, young people 13+ and couples in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire with fully qualified, experienced counsellor. ​Counselling can help with difficult feelings like anxiety, depression, grief, anger, loneliness and low self-esteem. Counselling can help you cope better with issues such as loss, relationship difficulties, stress, past traumas. Counselling can help you learn about yourself- your wants and needs – and how to meet them. ​Counselling for couples can help you remember what is right with your relationship, find ways to communicate more effectively and work together on what is difficult
Counselling for adults, young people 13+ and couples in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire with fully qualified, experienced counsellor. ​Counselling can help with difficult feelings like anxiety, depression, grief, anger, loneliness and low self-esteem. Counselling can help you cope better with issues such as loss, relationship difficulties, stress, past traumas. Counselling can help you learn about yourself- your wants and needs – and how to meet them. ​Counselling for couples can help you remember what is right with your relationship, find ways to communicate more effectively and work together on what is difficult
01242 903215 View 01242 903215
Photo of Cathy Cook - Cathy Cook - New Life Counselling , Psychotherapist, MBACP
All of us, at some point in our lives, are likely to feel overwhelmed by our feelings, thoughts, and/or circumstances. Anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, relationship breakdowns, single parenting, bereavement, loss, family issues etc. can leave us struggling to function as well as we would like. I am passionate about supporting all my clients through difficult situations and empowering them to reach their full potential. I can offer you a confidential, supportive, welcoming and non-judgemental space where we can look in detail at what is distressing you, and work together to find the best way forward.
All of us, at some point in our lives, are likely to feel overwhelmed by our feelings, thoughts, and/or circumstances. Anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, relationship breakdowns, single parenting, bereavement, loss, family issues etc. can leave us struggling to function as well as we would like. I am passionate about supporting all my clients through difficult situations and empowering them to reach their full potential. I can offer you a confidential, supportive, welcoming and non-judgemental space where we can look in detail at what is distressing you, and work together to find the best way forward.
01242 386010 View 01242 386010
Photo of Ben Crumpler - Therapy with Ben , Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Therapy with Ben
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
My ideal client is an adult facing anxiety, low mood, relationship issues, work struggles, or life changes, often feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unfulfilled. They want to understand themselves, build confidence and happiness, and find healthier ways to cope with life's challenges. They’re passionate about personal growth, open to exploring their feelings, and willing to look honestly at where change is needed. I offer a warm, non-judgemental space for real, lasting change. Therapy with Ben is about honest conversations and real-world support for life’s struggles. Maybe this resonates with you. If so, reach out to me.
My ideal client is an adult facing anxiety, low mood, relationship issues, work struggles, or life changes, often feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unfulfilled. They want to understand themselves, build confidence and happiness, and find healthier ways to cope with life's challenges. They’re passionate about personal growth, open to exploring their feelings, and willing to look honestly at where change is needed. I offer a warm, non-judgemental space for real, lasting change. Therapy with Ben is about honest conversations and real-world support for life’s struggles. Maybe this resonates with you. If so, reach out to me.
01242 501462 View 01242 501462
Photo of Chris Matcham, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Chris Matcham
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
6 Endorsed
Many difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, grief or chronic illness/disability can cause us to feel "stuck" in a particular way of feeling.
Our task is to feel safe whilst getting in touch with difficult feelings, to allow you to make the changes you want to happen. Let's work together to figure out how you are now and what these changes could be: Seeking help, as you are doing by searching this site, is a brave and important step in satisfying your own needs. In doing this, you are already creating some relief and a pathway towards yourself as you wish to be. You may feel lost or confused as to what comes next, but you have already shown that you can think outside of your difficulty and adapt in order to change - I can help you gain trust and belief in this process.
Many difficulties, such as anxiety, depression, grief or chronic illness/disability can cause us to feel "stuck" in a particular way of feeling.
Our task is to feel safe whilst getting in touch with difficult feelings, to allow you to make the changes you want to happen. Let's work together to figure out how you are now and what these changes could be: Seeking help, as you are doing by searching this site, is a brave and important step in satisfying your own needs. In doing this, you are already creating some relief and a pathway towards yourself as you wish to be. You may feel lost or confused as to what comes next, but you have already shown that you can think outside of your difficulty and adapt in order to change - I can help you gain trust and belief in this process.
07480 538802 View 07480 538802
Photo of Dr Hannah Barnes, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Hannah Barnes
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
April2026 - Slots available - Tues AM - please contact to discuss. If you are experiencing self-criticism, low mood, anxiety, or struggling with the impact of trauma, then I can help you. Perhaps you want to feel more confident, have more self-compassion, or want to find a way to better manage anxiety or negative thoughts. Perhaps you never had a chance to talk about or process what has happened to you in your life. You might be doing well in life, successful in your career or with your family, but something is still feeling missing. If any of this sounds like you, then get in touch and we can discuss how I can help you.
April2026 - Slots available - Tues AM - please contact to discuss. If you are experiencing self-criticism, low mood, anxiety, or struggling with the impact of trauma, then I can help you. Perhaps you want to feel more confident, have more self-compassion, or want to find a way to better manage anxiety or negative thoughts. Perhaps you never had a chance to talk about or process what has happened to you in your life. You might be doing well in life, successful in your career or with your family, but something is still feeling missing. If any of this sounds like you, then get in touch and we can discuss how I can help you.
01242 569951 View 01242 569951
Photo of Hannah Louise Wessel, Psychotherapist, MA, UKCP Trainee
Hannah Louise Wessel
Psychotherapist, MA, UKCP Trainee
2 Endorsed
Are you finding life a struggle? Do you feel stuck, or disconnected from yourself? I invite you to take a breath and listen in. What do you need right now? When was the last time someone really listened to you with calm, warm acceptance, without judgement, and with curiosity and kindness? I offer a safe, welcoming space where we can explore together the way in which you relate to yourself and others. As a senior student in Core Process Psychotherapy, I use gentle embodied mindfulness and presence to help you relate to yourself in a new way, to come into relationship with the whole of yourself with kindness and curiosity.
Are you finding life a struggle? Do you feel stuck, or disconnected from yourself? I invite you to take a breath and listen in. What do you need right now? When was the last time someone really listened to you with calm, warm acceptance, without judgement, and with curiosity and kindness? I offer a safe, welcoming space where we can explore together the way in which you relate to yourself and others. As a senior student in Core Process Psychotherapy, I use gentle embodied mindfulness and presence to help you relate to yourself in a new way, to come into relationship with the whole of yourself with kindness and curiosity.
01608 698915 View 01608 698915
Photo of Debbie Barron, Counsellor, MBACP
Debbie Barron
Counsellor, MBACP
We all need help as it can be hard when you are struggling with issues in life and with stressful situations. You might be feeling anxious, stuck or even overwhelmed and unable to tackle life's challenges on your own. I'm a qualified, BACP registered and experienced Humanistic counsellor practising in Cheltenham and West London. I offer non-judgemental, supportive and understanding counselling, provided in a safe space, where you can explore and express what is troubling you. I am committed to helping my clients make sense of and work through their difficulties to make changes that are important to them.
We all need help as it can be hard when you are struggling with issues in life and with stressful situations. You might be feeling anxious, stuck or even overwhelmed and unable to tackle life's challenges on your own. I'm a qualified, BACP registered and experienced Humanistic counsellor practising in Cheltenham and West London. I offer non-judgemental, supportive and understanding counselling, provided in a safe space, where you can explore and express what is troubling you. I am committed to helping my clients make sense of and work through their difficulties to make changes that are important to them.
01748 902228 View 01748 902228
Photo of Julie Ingram, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Julie Ingram
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Hello, and welcome to my page. I have been qualified as a psychotherapist and supervisor for over 18 years, with previous experience in mental health and Social Work Management. I work with adults, children, adolescents and have expertise in working with family issues. I can help with a wide range of matters including: anxiety and depression, self esteem, family difficulties, relationship issues, Childhood abuse, Childhood neglect, Life threatening events, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and trauma.
Hello, and welcome to my page. I have been qualified as a psychotherapist and supervisor for over 18 years, with previous experience in mental health and Social Work Management. I work with adults, children, adolescents and have expertise in working with family issues. I can help with a wide range of matters including: anxiety and depression, self esteem, family difficulties, relationship issues, Childhood abuse, Childhood neglect, Life threatening events, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and trauma.
01981 200129 View 01981 200129
Photo of Sarah Bolton-Locke, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Sarah Bolton-Locke
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
I have a face to face and online counselling practice based in Cheltenham and Gloucester, offering warm and accepting therapy for adults and children. Having a non-judgmental and safe space will give you the opportunity to explore whatever you may be struggling with.
I have a face to face and online counselling practice based in Cheltenham and Gloucester, offering warm and accepting therapy for adults and children. Having a non-judgmental and safe space will give you the opportunity to explore whatever you may be struggling with.
01452 934579 View 01452 934579
Photo of Matthew Smith, Counsellor, MBACP
Matthew Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Life can be hard at times, and you may find yourself struggling with painful emotions, anxiety, or a difficult relationship with yourself. You might feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure why things feel so heavy, even if you can’t point to one clear reason. People come to see me for many different reasons, but often with a shared sense that something in their inner world or relationships has become painful or hard to navigate alone. I aim to offer a calm, thoughtful space where we can slow things down, make sense of what’s going on, and explore your experience at a pace that feels right for you.
Life can be hard at times, and you may find yourself struggling with painful emotions, anxiety, or a difficult relationship with yourself. You might feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure why things feel so heavy, even if you can’t point to one clear reason. People come to see me for many different reasons, but often with a shared sense that something in their inner world or relationships has become painful or hard to navigate alone. I aim to offer a calm, thoughtful space where we can slow things down, make sense of what’s going on, and explore your experience at a pace that feels right for you.
01453 703534 View 01453 703534
Photo of samantha cannings, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
samantha cannings
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
I'm a registered Psychotherapist based in Gloucestershire. I specialise in supporting adults and young people experiencing psychological and emotional challenges. In our sessions together, I offer a gentle, conversational space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, hopes, and fears. Through sensitive questioning and warm curiosity, I aim to help you uncover some of the deeper, perhaps more hidden parts of yourself — supporting you to reconnect with who you are and how you’d like to move forward with your future.
I'm a registered Psychotherapist based in Gloucestershire. I specialise in supporting adults and young people experiencing psychological and emotional challenges. In our sessions together, I offer a gentle, conversational space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, hopes, and fears. Through sensitive questioning and warm curiosity, I aim to help you uncover some of the deeper, perhaps more hidden parts of yourself — supporting you to reconnect with who you are and how you’d like to move forward with your future.
01242 339242 View 01242 339242
Photo of Susannah Newell, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Susannah Newell
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
2 Endorsed
Hello. As an experienced psychotherapist, I can help you manage current life challenges like sudden changes or losses; anxiety; relationship issues; bereavement; loneliness; parenthood; depression or past experiences intruding on your present. Sometimes clients come with a more general sense of unfulfilment or want to know themselves better. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to share your load, rather than carrying it alone. Psychotherapy offers vital connection, support and opportunity to work things through with an empathic, trained professional totally unconnected to your life.
Hello. As an experienced psychotherapist, I can help you manage current life challenges like sudden changes or losses; anxiety; relationship issues; bereavement; loneliness; parenthood; depression or past experiences intruding on your present. Sometimes clients come with a more general sense of unfulfilment or want to know themselves better. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to share your load, rather than carrying it alone. Psychotherapy offers vital connection, support and opportunity to work things through with an empathic, trained professional totally unconnected to your life.
01242 650306 View 01242 650306
Photo of Rachel Power, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Rachel Power
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
I am an experienced counsellor PROVIDING THERAPY IN THE OUTDOORS. Sometimes we want to talk but sitting in a counselling room might not feel like the right space for you. WALKING WHILST TALKING might just give you the space and freedom to begin to understand some uncomfortable feelings and past experiences in the safe hands of myself within nature. Being in nature will help you to learn how to resource yourself whilst processing the past giving you a clearer feel of the future. You may feel anxious or depressed, struggling with relationships. I work from Pittville Park, The Cotswolds and Crickley Hill. I also do home visits.
I am an experienced counsellor PROVIDING THERAPY IN THE OUTDOORS. Sometimes we want to talk but sitting in a counselling room might not feel like the right space for you. WALKING WHILST TALKING might just give you the space and freedom to begin to understand some uncomfortable feelings and past experiences in the safe hands of myself within nature. Being in nature will help you to learn how to resource yourself whilst processing the past giving you a clearer feel of the future. You may feel anxious or depressed, struggling with relationships. I work from Pittville Park, The Cotswolds and Crickley Hill. I also do home visits.
07961 627500 View 07961 627500
Photo of Jen Edwards, Counsellor, MBACP
Jen Edwards
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
I recognise that life is a journey that can sometimes be a struggle. Life in this modern world is often chaotic, stressful and moves at such a fast pace, yet our reptilian brains are still designed to deal with cave man threats. This can lead to our bodies being flooded with fight, flight or freeze responses. In time these can build and lead to conditions such as anxiety, depression and low level trauma if not dealt with correctly. Having the support to help you through is not always easy to find.
I recognise that life is a journey that can sometimes be a struggle. Life in this modern world is often chaotic, stressful and moves at such a fast pace, yet our reptilian brains are still designed to deal with cave man threats. This can lead to our bodies being flooded with fight, flight or freeze responses. In time these can build and lead to conditions such as anxiety, depression and low level trauma if not dealt with correctly. Having the support to help you through is not always easy to find.
01242 903218 View 01242 903218
Photo of Megan Frankie Curtis, Counsellor, MBACP
Megan Frankie Curtis
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Hello, I am a qualified, experienced counsellor offering face-to face counselling in Cheltenham as well as online sessions, to suit your needs. I work compassionately and empathically, without judgement, to create a confidential and safe space for you to talk and explore your experiences. There may be something particular you would like to work through, or, maybe you're not sure what you need to focus on? I can help you to understand your thoughts and feelings to create a better understanding of yourself, others, and your relationships, to promote healing and growth at a pace that suits you.
Hello, I am a qualified, experienced counsellor offering face-to face counselling in Cheltenham as well as online sessions, to suit your needs. I work compassionately and empathically, without judgement, to create a confidential and safe space for you to talk and explore your experiences. There may be something particular you would like to work through, or, maybe you're not sure what you need to focus on? I can help you to understand your thoughts and feelings to create a better understanding of yourself, others, and your relationships, to promote healing and growth at a pace that suits you.
01242 504447 View 01242 504447

See more therapy options for Cheltenham

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.