Chronic Illness Counselling in Seaham

Photo of Natalie Holmes, Counsellor, MBACP
Natalie Holmes
Counsellor, MBACP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Natalie, the therapist at East Durham Counselling. I work with adults and young people in private practice. I’m trained in integrative counselling, which means I have lots of techniques to choose from when deciding what will help my clients the most; I draw from person-centred, psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapies depending on the presenting issues and client's needs. I have experience of working with autism, ADHD, abuse, anxiety, bereavement, depression, domestic violence, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, self-harm, stress, trauma and dissociation.
Hi, I’m Natalie, the therapist at East Durham Counselling. I work with adults and young people in private practice. I’m trained in integrative counselling, which means I have lots of techniques to choose from when deciding what will help my clients the most; I draw from person-centred, psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapies depending on the presenting issues and client's needs. I have experience of working with autism, ADHD, abuse, anxiety, bereavement, depression, domestic violence, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, self-harm, stress, trauma and dissociation.
0191 743 9237 View 0191 743 9237
Photo of Amy Robson, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Amy Robson
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
It takes courage to be reflective about ourselves and consider the things that might be getting in our way. Finding the right therapist can be an overwhelming task. I’m Amy, a humanistic and integrative Psychotherapist. Whatever has brought you here, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, changes to your identity or other stumbling blocks in life; our co-created relationship could be the catalyst for change you’re looking for.
It takes courage to be reflective about ourselves and consider the things that might be getting in our way. Finding the right therapist can be an overwhelming task. I’m Amy, a humanistic and integrative Psychotherapist. Whatever has brought you here, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, changes to your identity or other stumbling blocks in life; our co-created relationship could be the catalyst for change you’re looking for.
01429 802918 View 01429 802918

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Anna Day, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Anna Day
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
2 Endorsed
After suffering with chronic illness myself, I also specialize in supporting people with chronic illness, including ME/CFS, Long Covid and Chronic Lyme's.
I mostly practice EMDR, helping people to break free from their pasts, and Compassion Focused Therapy, supporting people to build their compassionate minds and ease guilt, shame and self criticism - issues that underpin many emotional difficulties. I also have extra training in mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT and polyvagal theory.
After suffering with chronic illness myself, I also specialize in supporting people with chronic illness, including ME/CFS, Long Covid and Chronic Lyme's.
I mostly practice EMDR, helping people to break free from their pasts, and Compassion Focused Therapy, supporting people to build their compassionate minds and ease guilt, shame and self criticism - issues that underpin many emotional difficulties. I also have extra training in mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT and polyvagal theory.
01661 520453 View 01661 520453
Photo of Sarah Hughes, Counsellor, MBACP
Sarah Hughes
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Has your life stopped feeling manageable or are you dealing with big emotions? Counselling can allow you space to take a step back and confront those feelings. You might be dealing with grief, low mood, anxiety, uncertainty, or thoughts that feel frightening or isolating. I offer a space where we can work together at a pace that's right for you, when those inner thoughts feel chaotic and overwhelming.
Has your life stopped feeling manageable or are you dealing with big emotions? Counselling can allow you space to take a step back and confront those feelings. You might be dealing with grief, low mood, anxiety, uncertainty, or thoughts that feel frightening or isolating. I offer a space where we can work together at a pace that's right for you, when those inner thoughts feel chaotic and overwhelming.
01642 053542 View 01642 053542
Photo of Christiane Kelegher, Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Christiane Kelegher
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
3 Endorsed
Online Only
This includes identities around chronic illness and disability, as well as around gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
As an Art psychotherapist I recognise that there is many creative ways to explore and reach your therapeutic aims. This means it is entirely up to you whether you would like the therapy sessions to be about working things through verbally, with the art materials or in any combination of the two.
This includes identities around chronic illness and disability, as well as around gender, sexuality and relationship diversity.
As an Art psychotherapist I recognise that there is many creative ways to explore and reach your therapeutic aims. This means it is entirely up to you whether you would like the therapy sessions to be about working things through verbally, with the art materials or in any combination of the two.
0191 743 0329 View 0191 743 0329
Photo of Kristen Brown, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Kristen Brown
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
My specialities include: neurodiversity, attachment, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence and disability/ chronic illness.
I take pride in establishing a safe, judgement-free environment. My therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach, I will periodically alter my therapeutic interventions to meet your needs, as individuals are not linear.
My specialities include: neurodiversity, attachment, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence and disability/ chronic illness.
I take pride in establishing a safe, judgement-free environment. My therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach, I will periodically alter my therapeutic interventions to meet your needs, as individuals are not linear.
01642 030876 View 01642 030876
Photo of Emily Barker, Counsellor, MBACP
Emily Barker
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Hi, I'm Emily. I am a Psychotherapeutic Counsellor based in Gateshead, UK. Life can be tough - whether that is because of loss, a complex illness, losing a job, or just feeling like something isn't right. I understand feeling like anxiety might never go away, or the dark, relentless clouds of depression.​ And I know that there is a way out of that place. ​I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to find peace and happiness in their lives.​ I offer a warm, friendly counselling service tailored to your needs. I am based in Low Fell, Gateshead, UK.
Hi, I'm Emily. I am a Psychotherapeutic Counsellor based in Gateshead, UK. Life can be tough - whether that is because of loss, a complex illness, losing a job, or just feeling like something isn't right. I understand feeling like anxiety might never go away, or the dark, relentless clouds of depression.​ And I know that there is a way out of that place. ​I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to find peace and happiness in their lives.​ I offer a warm, friendly counselling service tailored to your needs. I am based in Low Fell, Gateshead, UK.
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Photo of Dr Sophie Monaghan, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Sophie Monaghan
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
I am committed to helping people navigate and move beyond life’s challenges. I support people encountering sudden and significant life changes, whether affecting them directly or someone close to them. Often this relates to physical health conditions, neurological difficulties, life transitions, bereavement or traumatic experiences; leading to understandable distress and feeling overwhelmed. I offer a space to genuinely hear your story, explore how your experiences have shaped your life, consider possible next steps and support your aims for therapy, while working collaboratively at
I am committed to helping people navigate and move beyond life’s challenges. I support people encountering sudden and significant life changes, whether affecting them directly or someone close to them. Often this relates to physical health conditions, neurological difficulties, life transitions, bereavement or traumatic experiences; leading to understandable distress and feeling overwhelmed. I offer a space to genuinely hear your story, explore how your experiences have shaped your life, consider possible next steps and support your aims for therapy, while working collaboratively at
0191 743 1877 View 0191 743 1877
Photo of Jessica Marriott, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Jessica Marriott
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
You might look capable on the outside, but inside you feel everything: the shift in someone’s tone, the tension in a room, the tiny criticism no one else remembers. You overthink, people-please, hold your emotions in, then wonder why your body feels anxious, exhausted, tense or shut down. My work helps you understand what your nervous system has been carrying, loosen the protective patterns, and begin living from your body again.
You might look capable on the outside, but inside you feel everything: the shift in someone’s tone, the tension in a room, the tiny criticism no one else remembers. You overthink, people-please, hold your emotions in, then wonder why your body feels anxious, exhausted, tense or shut down. My work helps you understand what your nervous system has been carrying, loosen the protective patterns, and begin living from your body again.
0191 743 1170 View 0191 743 1170
Photo of Dr Abi Tarran-Jones, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Abi Tarran-Jones
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Yarm TS15
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist offering psychological therapy in a cosy log cabin, whilst walking through woodland, or sitting together on a hillside with far reaching views. I offer therapy in natural settings because many people find that being outdoors helps them feel calmer, think more clearly, and connect more openly. Research demonstrates that spending time in green spaces can support emotional regulation, restore attention, calm the nervous system, and promote a greater sense of connection. Therapy in nature can offer a welcome pause from the pace and pressures of modern life.
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist offering psychological therapy in a cosy log cabin, whilst walking through woodland, or sitting together on a hillside with far reaching views. I offer therapy in natural settings because many people find that being outdoors helps them feel calmer, think more clearly, and connect more openly. Research demonstrates that spending time in green spaces can support emotional regulation, restore attention, calm the nervous system, and promote a greater sense of connection. Therapy in nature can offer a welcome pause from the pace and pressures of modern life.
01642 030577 View 01642 030577
Photo of Karen Corder - Coastal Health Psychotherapy, MSc
I am here to help you navigate whatever life has thrown your way. We'll work together to analyse the situations you are dealing with and equip you with the best tools and techniques to work through them. Even the toughest of people sometimes need help to step back and see what they are working with.
I am here to help you navigate whatever life has thrown your way. We'll work together to analyse the situations you are dealing with and equip you with the best tools and techniques to work through them. Even the toughest of people sometimes need help to step back and see what they are working with.
0191 743 1026 View 0191 743 1026
Photo of Dr Mark Carey, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Mark Carey
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
2 Endorsed
Concessions offered for NHS and Blue Light workers. Concession for online appointments. I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience in mental and physical health services within the NHS, supporting adults with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and common psychological difficulties. I also help individuals adjusting to significant changes in physical health—navigating shifts in identity, roles, relationships, and the emotional impact of their condition. Drawing on this experience, I now provide individual online and in-person therapy for adults (18+).
Concessions offered for NHS and Blue Light workers. Concession for online appointments. I am a Clinical Psychologist with experience in mental and physical health services within the NHS, supporting adults with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and common psychological difficulties. I also help individuals adjusting to significant changes in physical health—navigating shifts in identity, roles, relationships, and the emotional impact of their condition. Drawing on this experience, I now provide individual online and in-person therapy for adults (18+).
0191 743 2667 View 0191 743 2667
Photo of Dr Charlotte Smith, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Charlotte Smith
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Yarm TS15
Are you feeling overwhelmed by physical or mental health problems or weight? Does your body or mind feel out of your control? Perhaps you've been diagnosed with a new condition or can't get your head round an existing one? Are any of these issues impacting on your emotions or relationships with others? I can help. I value supporting people with finding their own path, standing out from the crowd, building connection and relationships. I am not a fixer and I don't have all the answers, although I know that I am OK to sit with people in chaos. I strongly believe people can be empowered to find their own way, on their own terms.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by physical or mental health problems or weight? Does your body or mind feel out of your control? Perhaps you've been diagnosed with a new condition or can't get your head round an existing one? Are any of these issues impacting on your emotions or relationships with others? I can help. I value supporting people with finding their own path, standing out from the crowd, building connection and relationships. I am not a fixer and I don't have all the answers, although I know that I am OK to sit with people in chaos. I strongly believe people can be empowered to find their own way, on their own terms.
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Photo of Victoria Helen Miller - Great Minds Psychology, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Great Minds Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Victoria is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 year’s experience in the NHS and private sector. She has a special interest in supporting adults with emotional difficulties that they may face around their physical health conditions. She has has extensive experience of working with anxiety, low mood, adjustment and relationship issues. She also has a special interest in trauma and uses EMDR to formulate and work with adults who have experienced complex or single event traumas.
Victoria is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with over 20 year’s experience in the NHS and private sector. She has a special interest in supporting adults with emotional difficulties that they may face around their physical health conditions. She has has extensive experience of working with anxiety, low mood, adjustment and relationship issues. She also has a special interest in trauma and uses EMDR to formulate and work with adults who have experienced complex or single event traumas.
0191 743 9628 View 0191 743 9628
Photo of Emma Cockburn, Counsellor, MUKCP
Emma Cockburn
Counsellor, MUKCP
2 Endorsed
I offer a warm and safe space where you can gently explore your challenges so that you can foster healing, self-understanding, and personal growth. Coming to therapy might be a daunting thing to do, you may feel like you ‘shouldn’t’ need therapy. However there are many reasons why therapy might be useful for you. Perhaps you feel anxious. I can support you to calm your nervous system, understand what is going on and find healthy ways to cope. Maybe you feel depressed, different or not good enough. I will work with you to find meaning in your life, to understand yourself better and put the past to rest.
I offer a warm and safe space where you can gently explore your challenges so that you can foster healing, self-understanding, and personal growth. Coming to therapy might be a daunting thing to do, you may feel like you ‘shouldn’t’ need therapy. However there are many reasons why therapy might be useful for you. Perhaps you feel anxious. I can support you to calm your nervous system, understand what is going on and find healthy ways to cope. Maybe you feel depressed, different or not good enough. I will work with you to find meaning in your life, to understand yourself better and put the past to rest.
01661 521093 View 01661 521093
Photo of Soraya Hind - Soraya Hind Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Soraya Hind Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
Life has a way of challenging us beyond belief sometimes, especially currently. Counselling can provide a safe space to process some of these challenges. I have experience of supporting people with issues ranging from Hate Crime to Domestic Abuse. As a disabled mixed-race mother, I have been through a lot in life, even had to access counselling myself occasionally. I have an interest in counselling disabled people coming to terms with factors such as culture and race; as I do believe counselling should be made accessible for all. So, I aim to provide a non-judgemental and culturally sensitive space at all times.
Life has a way of challenging us beyond belief sometimes, especially currently. Counselling can provide a safe space to process some of these challenges. I have experience of supporting people with issues ranging from Hate Crime to Domestic Abuse. As a disabled mixed-race mother, I have been through a lot in life, even had to access counselling myself occasionally. I have an interest in counselling disabled people coming to terms with factors such as culture and race; as I do believe counselling should be made accessible for all. So, I aim to provide a non-judgemental and culturally sensitive space at all times.
01325 808669 View 01325 808669
Photo of Dr Lauren Mawn, Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Lauren Mawn
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Something feels not right for you at the moment and you’re feel ready to do something about it. Maybe it’s anxiety, low mood, relationship struggles, self-esteem, parenting stress, or navigating a major life change or illness. I’m Lauren, a HCPC registered psychologist working with individuals, couples, and families. My approach is warm and collaborative, drawing on both psychology and systemic thinking. That means I’m interested not just in what’s happening inside you, but in the relationships and contexts that shape your experience. If this resonates, let’s start with a chat to see if we’re a good fit.
Something feels not right for you at the moment and you’re feel ready to do something about it. Maybe it’s anxiety, low mood, relationship struggles, self-esteem, parenting stress, or navigating a major life change or illness. I’m Lauren, a HCPC registered psychologist working with individuals, couples, and families. My approach is warm and collaborative, drawing on both psychology and systemic thinking. That means I’m interested not just in what’s happening inside you, but in the relationships and contexts that shape your experience. If this resonates, let’s start with a chat to see if we’re a good fit.
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Photo of Fennec Adams, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Fennec Adams
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Online Only
I offer Integrative Counselling, as well as Clinical Supervision. I have experience of working with a range of individuals and issues. I think it is really important to understand and acknowledge the complexity of every individual's experience. I endeavour to do this by holding an open mind and creating a safe, boundaried space in which we can work. I incorporate a range of theories and skills in order to best facilitate your individual process and needs. I work in a sex and kink positive way, with all types of relationship styles. Neurodiversity and how that shapes how we experience the world is also a big part of my practice.
I offer Integrative Counselling, as well as Clinical Supervision. I have experience of working with a range of individuals and issues. I think it is really important to understand and acknowledge the complexity of every individual's experience. I endeavour to do this by holding an open mind and creating a safe, boundaried space in which we can work. I incorporate a range of theories and skills in order to best facilitate your individual process and needs. I work in a sex and kink positive way, with all types of relationship styles. Neurodiversity and how that shapes how we experience the world is also a big part of my practice.
01273 099026 View 01273 099026
Photo of Tabitha West, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Tabitha West
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Durham DH1
Hi - I'm Tabitha. I’m a Clinical Psychologist experienced in working with children, young people and adults living with a range of emotional difficulties related to their mental and physical health. I have experience supporting people who are living with anxiety, low mood, and self-criticism, as well as those who have been through painful life experiences and relationship difficulties. Much of my work in the NHS has included helping people to navigate the psychological impact of physical health conditions – whether that is adjusting to a diagnosis, managing fears about the future, or coping with changes in identity and role.
Hi - I'm Tabitha. I’m a Clinical Psychologist experienced in working with children, young people and adults living with a range of emotional difficulties related to their mental and physical health. I have experience supporting people who are living with anxiety, low mood, and self-criticism, as well as those who have been through painful life experiences and relationship difficulties. Much of my work in the NHS has included helping people to navigate the psychological impact of physical health conditions – whether that is adjusting to a diagnosis, managing fears about the future, or coping with changes in identity and role.
0191 743 2118 View 0191 743 2118
Photo of Dr Huw Williams, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Huw Williams
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
2 Endorsed
I am a Clinical Psychologist providing therapy tailored to individuals with general mental health difficulties, long-term health conditions and neurodiversity. Additionally, I have experience working with people living with HIV, chronic pain, neurological disorders, FND, and traumatic brain injury. I also provide neurorehabilitation, assessment of challenging behaviour, behaviour support plans, and mental capacity assessments.
I am a Clinical Psychologist providing therapy tailored to individuals with general mental health difficulties, long-term health conditions and neurodiversity. Additionally, I have experience working with people living with HIV, chronic pain, neurological disorders, FND, and traumatic brain injury. I also provide neurorehabilitation, assessment of challenging behaviour, behaviour support plans, and mental capacity assessments.
0191 743 6760 View 0191 743 6760
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.