Chronic Pain Counselling in Seaham

Photo of Aurelia Gergely-Preda, Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Aurelia Gergely-Preda
Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Seaham SR7
Our sessions will gently uncover the roots of your pain, whether from childhood, relationships, or life transitions and support you in safely processing it.
Hello, My ideal client has tried everything but still feels stuck. Therapy, books, positivity—nothing works. The problem isn't in their head. They feel it in their body—heaviness, fatigue, anxiety. They experience anxiety from nowhere, repeating patterns, living someone else's life, and unexplained physical symptoms. Something was lost along the way. They want results, not sympathy. Real change, not endless talking. Freedom, not staying stuck. They need to release what's holding them, feel lighter and clearer, and finally live instead of survive. They're ready for deeper work that addresses the root—not just symptoms.
Our sessions will gently uncover the roots of your pain, whether from childhood, relationships, or life transitions and support you in safely processing it.
Hello, My ideal client has tried everything but still feels stuck. Therapy, books, positivity—nothing works. The problem isn't in their head. They feel it in their body—heaviness, fatigue, anxiety. They experience anxiety from nowhere, repeating patterns, living someone else's life, and unexplained physical symptoms. Something was lost along the way. They want results, not sympathy. Real change, not endless talking. Freedom, not staying stuck. They need to release what's holding them, feel lighter and clearer, and finally live instead of survive. They're ready for deeper work that addresses the root—not just symptoms.
0191 743 9269 View 0191 743 9269
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 Joanna Naxton, Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Dr Joanna Naxton
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Hello, I have current appointments available to work with a range of your worries, anxieties, loneliness, depression , self-harm and relationship difficulties. I offer online, phone and face to face sessions. I am a qualified therapist with interests in working closely with those who want to change some aspect of their life. I also work with student counsellors and qualified therapists offering supervision and counselling academic tuition . I offer short term or long term psychotherapy where we work hard together to form a relationship powerful enough to change things for you in your private life.
Hello, I have current appointments available to work with a range of your worries, anxieties, loneliness, depression , self-harm and relationship difficulties. I offer online, phone and face to face sessions. I am a qualified therapist with interests in working closely with those who want to change some aspect of their life. I also work with student counsellors and qualified therapists offering supervision and counselling academic tuition . I offer short term or long term psychotherapy where we work hard together to form a relationship powerful enough to change things for you in your private life.
01386 571500 View 01386 571500
Photo of Kate Jane Chartres - Kate Chartres Therapy and Consultation , MA
Kate Chartres Therapy and Consultation
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a Consultant Nurse currently on a career break, an accredited EMDR consultant and clinical supervisor. I specialise in working with co-morbid physical and mental health problems, although I work with people with everything from mild anxiety to complex trauma. I also have training in DBT, NLP, Hypnosis and am an accredited EFT practitioner. I believe that the mind and body are closely connected and one has to heal using the body and the mind to get the best benefit.
I am a Consultant Nurse currently on a career break, an accredited EMDR consultant and clinical supervisor. I specialise in working with co-morbid physical and mental health problems, although I work with people with everything from mild anxiety to complex trauma. I also have training in DBT, NLP, Hypnosis and am an accredited EFT practitioner. I believe that the mind and body are closely connected and one has to heal using the body and the mind to get the best benefit.
0191 743 9301 View 0191 743 9301
Photo of Sarah Hughes, Counsellor, MBACP
Sarah Hughes
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I understand neurodivergence and support people who feel unseen or overwhelmed, as well as those living with chronic pain, serious illness or grief.
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.
I understand neurodivergence and support people who feel unseen or overwhelmed, as well as those living with chronic pain, serious illness or grief.
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 Dr Alan Bowman, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Alan Bowman
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
I work with individuals who feel overwhelmed by the weight of past trauma, grapple with chronic pain, or who are trying to cope with fears about death and loss.
I specialise in trauma, chronic pain, and issues related to death, offering a blend of EMDR, ACT, and existential therapy. Together, we’ll create a safe space to explore your experiences, reduce emotional suffering, and grow a deeper sense of acceptance and meaning. Whether you’re facing past trauma, living with pain, or navigating loss, I’m here to help.
I work with individuals who feel overwhelmed by the weight of past trauma, grapple with chronic pain, or who are trying to cope with fears about death and loss.
I specialise in trauma, chronic pain, and issues related to death, offering a blend of EMDR, ACT, and existential therapy. Together, we’ll create a safe space to explore your experiences, reduce emotional suffering, and grow a deeper sense of acceptance and meaning. Whether you’re facing past trauma, living with pain, or navigating loss, I’m here to help.
0191 607 1134 View 0191 607 1134
Photo of Andrea Johnson, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Andrea Johnson
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
2 Endorsed
I offer my clients a predominantly Person-Centred approach to counselling that is welcoming, understanding, non-judgemental and of course completely confidential. I currently work for an EAP Service and previously a Primary Care Mental Health Organisation alongside my own private practice which is based in Darlington. I can offer you an integrative approach to therapy which includes training in CBT, Creative Therapies and Mindfulness. I have extensive experience of working with difference, diversity, and a variety of issues, which means I can offer you a bespoke humanistic experience that is tailored to your unique needs.
I offer my clients a predominantly Person-Centred approach to counselling that is welcoming, understanding, non-judgemental and of course completely confidential. I currently work for an EAP Service and previously a Primary Care Mental Health Organisation alongside my own private practice which is based in Darlington. I can offer you an integrative approach to therapy which includes training in CBT, Creative Therapies and Mindfulness. I have extensive experience of working with difference, diversity, and a variety of issues, which means I can offer you a bespoke humanistic experience that is tailored to your unique needs.
01325 808533 View 01325 808533
Photo of Allan Clayton, Counsellor, MBACP
Allan Clayton
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
If you are on this page, it probably means you are a feeling a little stuck and could do with someone to trust, not judge you and listen to you. I can do that. What makes me different, I’ve been there. I’m not going to write paragraphs about me because this is about you. If you’d like to know more about me, please visit my site ww.allanclayton.co.uk “When I stand at the foot of a mountain, I can very rarely see the summit. I put one foot in front of the other and take a step at a time. Before I know it, I’ve conquered that mountain.”
If you are on this page, it probably means you are a feeling a little stuck and could do with someone to trust, not judge you and listen to you. I can do that. What makes me different, I’ve been there. I’m not going to write paragraphs about me because this is about you. If you’d like to know more about me, please visit my site ww.allanclayton.co.uk “When I stand at the foot of a mountain, I can very rarely see the summit. I put one foot in front of the other and take a step at a time. Before I know it, I’ve conquered that mountain.”
0113 519 0323 View 0113 519 0323
Photo of Florentine ten Houte de Lange, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Florentine ten Houte de Lange
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Life can be overwhelming at times, and sometimes talking therapy can help you get 'unstuck'. Let us collaboratively work together and create manageable steps towards the goals you want to achieve.
Life can be overwhelming at times, and sometimes talking therapy can help you get 'unstuck'. Let us collaboratively work together and create manageable steps towards the goals you want to achieve.
0191 743 9914 View 0191 743 9914
Photo of Dr Nicky Ablett-Tate, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Nicky Ablett-Tate
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I am a consultant psychologist and psychoanalytic psychotherapist with over thirty years of experience working in clinical and leadership roles in the NHS and in private practice. If you are looking for lasting change and a safe, secure setting, get in touch. I have a lot of experience working with a range of human difficulties ranging from grief and trauma to relationship problems and all forms of abuse including diagnoses such as obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD and personality disorders.
I am a consultant psychologist and psychoanalytic psychotherapist with over thirty years of experience working in clinical and leadership roles in the NHS and in private practice. If you are looking for lasting change and a safe, secure setting, get in touch. I have a lot of experience working with a range of human difficulties ranging from grief and trauma to relationship problems and all forms of abuse including diagnoses such as obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD and personality disorders.
01325 796710 View 01325 796710
Photo of Claire Joanne Guinan - Dr Claire Guinan - Disordered Eating Recovery , Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Claire Guinan - Disordered Eating Recovery
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Do you need help to improve your relationship with food? I've been a clinical psychologist for over 20 years. For the past 11 years, I've specialised in disordered eating (e.g. "emotional eating") and eating disorders (including binge eating disorder and bulimia), in addition to associated issues, such as anxiety, low mood, trauma, low self-esteem, poor body image, self-sabotaging behaviours, fear of change, and weight-related difficulties. I offer a safe, supportive space to help you better understand your relationship with food, yourself and others. I will help you work towards your goals at your own pace.
Do you need help to improve your relationship with food? I've been a clinical psychologist for over 20 years. For the past 11 years, I've specialised in disordered eating (e.g. "emotional eating") and eating disorders (including binge eating disorder and bulimia), in addition to associated issues, such as anxiety, low mood, trauma, low self-esteem, poor body image, self-sabotaging behaviours, fear of change, and weight-related difficulties. I offer a safe, supportive space to help you better understand your relationship with food, yourself and others. I will help you work towards your goals at your own pace.
0191 743 1959 View 0191 743 1959
Photo of Eirini Vasilaki, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Eirini Vasilaki
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Yarm TS15
As a Principal Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience in the NHS, I am deeply committed to supporting adults facing anxiety, relational difficulties, depression, dissociation and trauma symptoms shaped by life challenges and traumatic events. I specialise in relational difficulties, trauma and dissociation. My approach is rooted in compassion, curiosity and understanding, recognizing that everyone’s journey is unique. In addition to my clinical practice, I offer professional and clinical supervision as an accredited CAT supervisor, fostering growth and development in fellow practitioners.
As a Principal Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience in the NHS, I am deeply committed to supporting adults facing anxiety, relational difficulties, depression, dissociation and trauma symptoms shaped by life challenges and traumatic events. I specialise in relational difficulties, trauma and dissociation. My approach is rooted in compassion, curiosity and understanding, recognizing that everyone’s journey is unique. In addition to my clinical practice, I offer professional and clinical supervision as an accredited CAT supervisor, fostering growth and development in fellow practitioners.
01642 056321 View 01642 056321
Photo of Katherine Banner, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Katherine Banner
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
I support individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed, experience anxiety, or feel unheard. I help you explore questions such as: -How can I feel like myself again? How can I build better, more fulfilling relationships? My work focuses on both conscious and unconscious patterns in our lives and relationships, helping you gain a deeper understanding of what may be impacting you. I work with a range of challenges, including high anxiety, depression, and the effects of emotional neglect. I provide practical tools and resources to strengthen boundaries, improve communication, and work with somatic (bodily) trauma responses using EMDR.
I support individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed, experience anxiety, or feel unheard. I help you explore questions such as: -How can I feel like myself again? How can I build better, more fulfilling relationships? My work focuses on both conscious and unconscious patterns in our lives and relationships, helping you gain a deeper understanding of what may be impacting you. I work with a range of challenges, including high anxiety, depression, and the effects of emotional neglect. I provide practical tools and resources to strengthen boundaries, improve communication, and work with somatic (bodily) trauma responses using EMDR.
01325 809265 View 01325 809265
Photo of Nicola Jones - Nicola Jones Counselling and CBT, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Nicola Jones Counselling and CBT
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
I am a fully qualified and experienced Counsellor, Psychological Therapist and High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Supervisor. Often individuals will seek therapy because they feel unable to cope with the stresses of life or adjusting to a big change, not like 'their old self', isolated from others, worried or lost or just needing someone to listen. My role is to work together with individuals to make sense of what is happening for them and provide opportunities for change in away that they feel is appropriate and achievable at their own pace, within a private and confidential setting.
I am a fully qualified and experienced Counsellor, Psychological Therapist and High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Supervisor. Often individuals will seek therapy because they feel unable to cope with the stresses of life or adjusting to a big change, not like 'their old self', isolated from others, worried or lost or just needing someone to listen. My role is to work together with individuals to make sense of what is happening for them and provide opportunities for change in away that they feel is appropriate and achievable at their own pace, within a private and confidential setting.
01325 809788 View 01325 809788
Photo of Louise Stubbs
Louise Stubbs
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you feel like your mental health has dipped and you don’t quite feel like yourself anymore? Maybe you’re stuck in cycles of worry, relying on coping strategies that don’t really help, or facing a situation that just isn’t improving? Perhaps you and your partner are feeling unsure about the future of your relationship? Whether you come alone or as a couple, I offer a space to slow down, make sense of what’s happening, and find the confidence to start creating the changes you need.
Do you feel like your mental health has dipped and you don’t quite feel like yourself anymore? Maybe you’re stuck in cycles of worry, relying on coping strategies that don’t really help, or facing a situation that just isn’t improving? Perhaps you and your partner are feeling unsure about the future of your relationship? Whether you come alone or as a couple, I offer a space to slow down, make sense of what’s happening, and find the confidence to start creating the changes you need.
01207 263050 View 01207 263050
Photo of Paul Agar, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Paul Agar
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
I understand reaching out for support can feel difficult, especially if you’ve been feeling stuck for some time. If you’re considering therapy, you're welcome to get in touch and make use of a free initial consultation. I’m an EMDR Psychotherapist, Consultant and Clinical Supervisor, and an accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I have over fifteen years of experience supporting individuals with their mental health and emotional wellbeing, particularly in relation to trauma, anxiety, and feeling stuck in patterns that are difficult to shift.
I understand reaching out for support can feel difficult, especially if you’ve been feeling stuck for some time. If you’re considering therapy, you're welcome to get in touch and make use of a free initial consultation. I’m an EMDR Psychotherapist, Consultant and Clinical Supervisor, and an accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I have over fifteen years of experience supporting individuals with their mental health and emotional wellbeing, particularly in relation to trauma, anxiety, and feeling stuck in patterns that are difficult to shift.
07588 674861 View 07588 674861
Photo of Charlotte Dunkel - Fresh Start Psychological Services , Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Fresh Start Psychological Services
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm Charlotte a Qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I have over 10 years experience working within NHS Talking Therapies services, both as a low intensity Psychological Wellbeing practitioner and a High Intensity Therapist. I have experience working with adults with a range of mental health difficulties including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive disorder and Social Phobia. More recently I have undertaken training in Interpersonal Therapy for Depression (IPT) and currently working towards accreditation in this modality.
I'm Charlotte a Qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I have over 10 years experience working within NHS Talking Therapies services, both as a low intensity Psychological Wellbeing practitioner and a High Intensity Therapist. I have experience working with adults with a range of mental health difficulties including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive disorder and Social Phobia. More recently I have undertaken training in Interpersonal Therapy for Depression (IPT) and currently working towards accreditation in this modality.
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Photo of Jeannie Davison, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Jeannie Davison
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Are you looking for a warm and supportive therapeutic environment to enable you make changes, heal and grow? I am an experienced UKCP registered counsellor/psychotherapist providing therapy tailored to meet your specific needs. I am qualified to and experienced in working with all mental health issues. I will always ask what the goal of therapy is for you and work with you in planning the best way for us to make sure that this is achieved.
Are you looking for a warm and supportive therapeutic environment to enable you make changes, heal and grow? I am an experienced UKCP registered counsellor/psychotherapist providing therapy tailored to meet your specific needs. I am qualified to and experienced in working with all mental health issues. I will always ask what the goal of therapy is for you and work with you in planning the best way for us to make sure that this is achieved.
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Photo of Max Gillespie, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Max Gillespie
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
I offer a soulful approach to therapy grounded in the latest psychological theory. ​Often, it may seem that much of modern psychological therapy merely ruffles and reorganises the surface of the things that trouble us, seeing people who are experiencing psychological suffering as complex machines to which we can apply a set psychological theories. In contrast, after 20years of working as a psychological therapist, I believe it's more appropriate to approach clients as 'souls' in need of hearing, healing, connection, meaning, and renewal. ​
I offer a soulful approach to therapy grounded in the latest psychological theory. ​Often, it may seem that much of modern psychological therapy merely ruffles and reorganises the surface of the things that trouble us, seeing people who are experiencing psychological suffering as complex machines to which we can apply a set psychological theories. In contrast, after 20years of working as a psychological therapist, I believe it's more appropriate to approach clients as 'souls' in need of hearing, healing, connection, meaning, and renewal. ​
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Chronic Pain Counsellors
How does chronic pain therapy work?
Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?
Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophising, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?
Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?
There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.