Chronic Illness Therapists in East London

Photo of Mihlali Makasi, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Mihlali Makasi
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Specializations include chronic illness management, weight management counselling, insomnia, grief and panic attacks.
I am an empathic and passionate Counselling Psychologist offering services for Individuals, couples, families, groups and organizations. Psychological assessment (incl. career guidance assessments) and psychotherapy are part of the services offered to adults, adolescents and children. Both inpatient and outpatient mental health services are offered. Clients are assisted to live life without the hindrance of emotional, behavioural and cognitive struggles. Services are offered in a non judgemental space with support in developing more fulfilling life experiences.
Specializations include chronic illness management, weight management counselling, insomnia, grief and panic attacks.
I am an empathic and passionate Counselling Psychologist offering services for Individuals, couples, families, groups and organizations. Psychological assessment (incl. career guidance assessments) and psychotherapy are part of the services offered to adults, adolescents and children. Both inpatient and outpatient mental health services are offered. Clients are assisted to live life without the hindrance of emotional, behavioural and cognitive struggles. Services are offered in a non judgemental space with support in developing more fulfilling life experiences.
087 250 0719 x24 View 087 250 0719 x24
Photo of Patricia Margaret Hill - Pat Hill, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Pat Hill
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
I have been in private practice as a Clinical Psychologist for over 30 years so have experience with a wide range of problems.
I have been in private practice as a Clinical Psychologist for over 30 years so have experience with a wide range of problems.
087 250 0412 x60 View 087 250 0412 x60
Photo of Zoleka Tungata, Social Worker, SACSSP
Zoleka Tungata
Social Worker, SACSSP
I offer comprehensive intervention and compassionate therapeutic approach. My experience and expertise play a vital role in assisting to address diverse client issues. I provide a non-judgmental, empathetic and confidential space in which clients can safely express the challenges that are impacting their daily lives. I work with clients, supporting them to achieve their goals, empowering them with skills that they can apply in the future when in need. I create a supportive setting and find actionable solutions. I am the greatest first point of contact when you are not sure where to turn to.
I offer comprehensive intervention and compassionate therapeutic approach. My experience and expertise play a vital role in assisting to address diverse client issues. I provide a non-judgmental, empathetic and confidential space in which clients can safely express the challenges that are impacting their daily lives. I work with clients, supporting them to achieve their goals, empowering them with skills that they can apply in the future when in need. I create a supportive setting and find actionable solutions. I am the greatest first point of contact when you are not sure where to turn to.
087 250 2837 x43 View 087 250 2837 x43
Photo of Nolwazi Somtsewu, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Nolwazi Somtsewu
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
I am a registered Counselling psychologist, with 16 years' experience in supporting clients with career planning and management, study, personal challenges affecting their wellbeing, performance and life satisfaction. I also help with employment preparation, adjustment to preparation for retirement. I am compassionate, and love to help clients to empower themselves to lead meaningful and fulfilling life. I am a firm believer in human potential and working collaboratively with my clients for their personal growth. My services are online and face to face, to individuals, groups, and organizations.
I am a registered Counselling psychologist, with 16 years' experience in supporting clients with career planning and management, study, personal challenges affecting their wellbeing, performance and life satisfaction. I also help with employment preparation, adjustment to preparation for retirement. I am compassionate, and love to help clients to empower themselves to lead meaningful and fulfilling life. I am a firm believer in human potential and working collaboratively with my clients for their personal growth. My services are online and face to face, to individuals, groups, and organizations.
087 250 2477 x38 View 087 250 2477 x38
Photo of Niki Alexandra, General Counsellor, ASCHP Specialist Wellness Counsellor
Niki Alexandra
General Counsellor, ASCHP Specialist Wellness Counsellor
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who values authenticity, seeks neuroaffirming support, wants something different, values compassion and understanding, and is on a journey of self-discovery. You are looking for an approach that diverges from traditional psychological and medical models. Perhaps you've found that conventional methods haven't resonated with you or addressed your unique needs. You're also open to exploring integrative and holistic practices that consider the mind, body, and spirit.
My ideal client is someone who values authenticity, seeks neuroaffirming support, wants something different, values compassion and understanding, and is on a journey of self-discovery. You are looking for an approach that diverges from traditional psychological and medical models. Perhaps you've found that conventional methods haven't resonated with you or addressed your unique needs. You're also open to exploring integrative and holistic practices that consider the mind, body, and spirit.
087 250 2748 x15 View 087 250 2748 x15
Photo of Bongiwe Mpukwana, Social Worker, BSocSci Hons, SACSSP
Bongiwe Mpukwana
Social Worker, BSocSci Hons, SACSSP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As an experienced social worker, I understand the complexities of life’s challenges and the impact they can have on your mental and emotional well-being. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, work-related stress, or difficulties in personal relationships, I’m here to offer guidance and support. You may be feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of daily life, uncertain about your path forward, or struggling to cope with unresolved trauma. Perhaps you’re seeking a space where you can explore these feelings without judgment, where your voice is heard, and your experiences are valued. You don’t have to go through this journey alone.
As an experienced social worker, I understand the complexities of life’s challenges and the impact they can have on your mental and emotional well-being. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, work-related stress, or difficulties in personal relationships, I’m here to offer guidance and support. You may be feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of daily life, uncertain about your path forward, or struggling to cope with unresolved trauma. Perhaps you’re seeking a space where you can explore these feelings without judgment, where your voice is heard, and your experiences are valued. You don’t have to go through this journey alone.
087 250 2042 x58 View 087 250 2042 x58

Online Therapists

Photo of Susan Louise McGarvie, General Counsellor, PhD
Susan Louise McGarvie
General Counsellor, PhD
Whether you're struggling to navigate difficult life circumstances, or feeling like you're ready to take action and make positive life changes, finding someone to support and guide you is a healthy and courageous step.
Whether you're struggling to navigate difficult life circumstances, or feeling like you're ready to take action and make positive life changes, finding someone to support and guide you is a healthy and courageous step.
087 250 2148 x38 View 087 250 2148 x38
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.