Chronic Illness Counselling in Saint Leonards, NSW

Photo of June Gay - June Gay, Principal Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
June Gay, Principal Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
In particular, June has extensive experience treating anxiety, mood disorders, grief and loss, sleep, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ concerns, chronic illness distress and supporting parents re: child epilepsy.
Appointments available in August. June has over 22y experience as a Psychologist and has a Master of Counselling Psychology. Central to therapy with June is an authentic, empathetic and collaborative therapeutic relationship, which research has shown to be the most important factor in successful counselling. Recognising the uniqueness of each individual, June integrates evidence based concepts and techniques to assist and empower client recovery. Sessions can be conducted either in person or via Telehealth. She is a registered provider with Medicare, health funds, WorkCover, and Access+.
In particular, June has extensive experience treating anxiety, mood disorders, grief and loss, sleep, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ concerns, chronic illness distress and supporting parents re: child epilepsy.
Appointments available in August. June has over 22y experience as a Psychologist and has a Master of Counselling Psychology. Central to therapy with June is an authentic, empathetic and collaborative therapeutic relationship, which research has shown to be the most important factor in successful counselling. Recognising the uniqueness of each individual, June integrates evidence based concepts and techniques to assist and empower client recovery. Sessions can be conducted either in person or via Telehealth. She is a registered provider with Medicare, health funds, WorkCover, and Access+.
(02) 9100 0355 View (02) 9100 0355
Photo of Katherine Watson, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Katherine Watson
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Creating change takes commitment. My clients are adults (18+) who want to see changes in their lives and are ready to work together to make this happen. My approach is grounded in mindfulness, and I work collaboratively with clients to identify their issues and the therapeutic approach that best suits them. Clients who want to draw on their strengths to manage life's challenges and learn to be more self-compassionate are welcomed.
Creating change takes commitment. My clients are adults (18+) who want to see changes in their lives and are ready to work together to make this happen. My approach is grounded in mindfulness, and I work collaboratively with clients to identify their issues and the therapeutic approach that best suits them. Clients who want to draw on their strengths to manage life's challenges and learn to be more self-compassionate are welcomed.
(02) 9100 0349 View (02) 9100 0349
Photo of Dr Rosemary Allen, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Rosemary Allen
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Rosemary has experience working with individuals of all ages & stages. She has worked in various clinical settings, including inpatient & outpatient hospital settings, forensic facilities, military settings, private practice and in the community. Stemming from her doctoral research and experience working in trauma settings, she has a strong interest in trauma and takes a trauma-informed approach to her practice. She collaborates with her clients to develop the best evidence based treatment plan for your needs, working from an integrative therapeutic approach. See below the treatment modalities Rosemary offers to her clients.
Rosemary has experience working with individuals of all ages & stages. She has worked in various clinical settings, including inpatient & outpatient hospital settings, forensic facilities, military settings, private practice and in the community. Stemming from her doctoral research and experience working in trauma settings, she has a strong interest in trauma and takes a trauma-informed approach to her practice. She collaborates with her clients to develop the best evidence based treatment plan for your needs, working from an integrative therapeutic approach. See below the treatment modalities Rosemary offers to her clients.
(02) 9159 6836 View (02) 9159 6836
Photo of Dr Sarah Lal, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Dr Sarah Lal
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Sarah is a dual qualified Psychotherapist and Osteopath and grounds her ethos in the equal importance of your body, mind, and spirit in your well-being. Her holistic approach is strongly influenced by Somatic Psychotherapy and supported by her Osteopathic knowledge and expertise. Therapeutic modalities range from Mindfulness and Somatic Therapy, Contemporary Psychodynamic Therapy, and Creative Arts Therapy. Sarah's trauma-informed person-centred approach establishes a safe space before delving into your concerns. She enjoys the privilege of helping people find their innermost happiness and live life authentically.
Sarah is a dual qualified Psychotherapist and Osteopath and grounds her ethos in the equal importance of your body, mind, and spirit in your well-being. Her holistic approach is strongly influenced by Somatic Psychotherapy and supported by her Osteopathic knowledge and expertise. Therapeutic modalities range from Mindfulness and Somatic Therapy, Contemporary Psychodynamic Therapy, and Creative Arts Therapy. Sarah's trauma-informed person-centred approach establishes a safe space before delving into your concerns. She enjoys the privilege of helping people find their innermost happiness and live life authentically.
(02) 9159 6596 View (02) 9159 6596
Photo of Larissa Kirpichnikov, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Larissa Kirpichnikov
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Couples Therapy & Coaching / Individuals Therapy & Coaching / Family Dispute Resolution Mediation (FDRP) & Divorce Coaching Services. With more than 25 years experience of living and working in Australia and abroad, Larissa understands that life and relationships are not always smooth. Whether you are wishing to improve your intimate relationship, seek individual support, parenting &/or financial FDR mediation services, or divorce coaching, please call to discuss how we can best assist you. You may also visit our website for further information.
Couples Therapy & Coaching / Individuals Therapy & Coaching / Family Dispute Resolution Mediation (FDRP) & Divorce Coaching Services. With more than 25 years experience of living and working in Australia and abroad, Larissa understands that life and relationships are not always smooth. Whether you are wishing to improve your intimate relationship, seek individual support, parenting &/or financial FDR mediation services, or divorce coaching, please call to discuss how we can best assist you. You may also visit our website for further information.
(02) 9100 0410 View (02) 9100 0410
Photo of Sanchana Venkatesh, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych., Psychologist
Sanchana Venkatesh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
I have a special interest in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, chronic health issues, grief and loss, life transitions (e.g. career, stage of life, migration), PTSD, OCD, tics and Tourettes. I am passionate about helping individuals live a life worth living based on their values. Some populations I particularly enjoy working with include people of colour, gifted individuals, young women, and creatives. In addition to providing individual therapy, I have a keen interest in cognitive assessments to identify gifted abilities or learning disabilities.
I have a special interest in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, chronic health issues, grief and loss, life transitions (e.g. career, stage of life, migration), PTSD, OCD, tics and Tourettes. I am passionate about helping individuals live a life worth living based on their values. Some populations I particularly enjoy working with include people of colour, gifted individuals, young women, and creatives. In addition to providing individual therapy, I have a keen interest in cognitive assessments to identify gifted abilities or learning disabilities.
(02) 9100 0086 View (02) 9100 0086
Photo of Jessica Koch, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jessica Koch
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Jess provides a safe, nurturing and respectful environment for each individual to explore their current challenges and gain insight into the background, maintenance and effect of these challenges. Jess holds the power of the client-therapist relationship in high regard and collaborates with her clients to reach their individual treatment goals and guide them towards living their best lives. Working from a holistic, strengths-based approach, Jess encourages each individual to utilise their strengths, build resilience and acquire practical skills to manage emotions, thoughts and actions.
Jess provides a safe, nurturing and respectful environment for each individual to explore their current challenges and gain insight into the background, maintenance and effect of these challenges. Jess holds the power of the client-therapist relationship in high regard and collaborates with her clients to reach their individual treatment goals and guide them towards living their best lives. Working from a holistic, strengths-based approach, Jess encourages each individual to utilise their strengths, build resilience and acquire practical skills to manage emotions, thoughts and actions.
(02) 9159 6981 View (02) 9159 6981
Photo of Patrick Eid, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Patrick Eid
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Hi, my name is Patrick and I cannot tell you how excited I am to be able to provide you with this service. As a Queer person from a CALD background who grew up in a conservative community with a high stigma around mental health illness, I understand what it is like to develop and live with poor mental health as a result of systemic concerns. Throughout my personal and professional life, I’ve always found it difficult to find a service that holistically caters to the mental health of people that live in complex systems (e.g., accounting for racial injustice, systemic oppression, complex trauma, and the patriarchy… to name a few).
Hi, my name is Patrick and I cannot tell you how excited I am to be able to provide you with this service. As a Queer person from a CALD background who grew up in a conservative community with a high stigma around mental health illness, I understand what it is like to develop and live with poor mental health as a result of systemic concerns. Throughout my personal and professional life, I’ve always found it difficult to find a service that holistically caters to the mental health of people that live in complex systems (e.g., accounting for racial injustice, systemic oppression, complex trauma, and the patriarchy… to name a few).
(02) 8322 9090 View (02) 8322 9090
Photo of Vonnie Ho, PACFA, Counsellor
Vonnie Ho
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Vonnie believes in the importance of therapeutic relationships, providing a safe space allowing individuals to feel heard and supported when life is challenging. Vonnie had experiences volunteering in various community and multicultural services, practiced face-to-face, online, and telephone counseling to the individuals. She has worked with individuals, children, and parents, and also immigrants. Growing up in a multicultural environment, Vonnie is able to communicate in English, Chinese and Malay. She also integrates faith issues in counselling for Christian clients as requested.
Vonnie believes in the importance of therapeutic relationships, providing a safe space allowing individuals to feel heard and supported when life is challenging. Vonnie had experiences volunteering in various community and multicultural services, practiced face-to-face, online, and telephone counseling to the individuals. She has worked with individuals, children, and parents, and also immigrants. Growing up in a multicultural environment, Vonnie is able to communicate in English, Chinese and Malay. She also integrates faith issues in counselling for Christian clients as requested.
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Photo of Desne Doman - EMDR Therapy Sydney, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
EMDR Therapy Sydney
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Not accepting new clients
You are someone navigating life's complexities, dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and trauma. You need a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings. Your goal is to achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment, gaining insights and coping strategies to lead a healthier, more satisfying life. You seek therapy because you value personal growth and understand the power of professional support in fostering resilience and positive change.
You are someone navigating life's complexities, dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and trauma. You need a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings. Your goal is to achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment, gaining insights and coping strategies to lead a healthier, more satisfying life. You seek therapy because you value personal growth and understand the power of professional support in fostering resilience and positive change.
(02) 9100 0168 View (02) 9100 0168

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shiraze Bulsara - The Sydney Psychology Practice, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
The Sydney Psychology Practice
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
Shiraze is a clinical psychologist with experience treating the psychological effects of chronic illness and supporting people of diverse cultures, sexualities and genders.
The Sydney Psychology Practice is focused on supporting clients to make sustainable change. Our team has extensive experience with a diverse range of clients and concerns, and using treatments with demonstrated research efficacy.
Shiraze is a clinical psychologist with experience treating the psychological effects of chronic illness and supporting people of diverse cultures, sexualities and genders.
The Sydney Psychology Practice is focused on supporting clients to make sustainable change. Our team has extensive experience with a diverse range of clients and concerns, and using treatments with demonstrated research efficacy.
(02) 9100 0631 View (02) 9100 0631
Photo of Lila Juliette Pesa, Psychotherapist
Lila Juliette Pesa
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Sydney, NSW 2060
Other areas of practice: cancer-informed supportive psychotherapy; support around living with chronic illness; grief and loss / traumatic grief; migrant issues; couple counselling for beginning or renewing a relationship, re-discovering the meaning of a partnership, recovery work with traumatized couples; support with conscious un-coupling when necessary.
I support self-discovery and self-expression by offering a respectful, compassionate and attuned presence, therapeutic skills and experience; honoring the emergence of clients' deep inner wisdom and a self-empowered way of living. I offer support with meaning making and facilitating post-traumatic growth. My clients are those affected by childhood trauma / attachment traumas, re-living emotional pain from the past; dealing with addictive patterns, disordered eating, complex family dynamics, ancestral trauma, relationship issues - family or peers, body image and self-identity.
Other areas of practice: cancer-informed supportive psychotherapy; support around living with chronic illness; grief and loss / traumatic grief; migrant issues; couple counselling for beginning or renewing a relationship, re-discovering the meaning of a partnership, recovery work with traumatized couples; support with conscious un-coupling when necessary.
I support self-discovery and self-expression by offering a respectful, compassionate and attuned presence, therapeutic skills and experience; honoring the emergence of clients' deep inner wisdom and a self-empowered way of living. I offer support with meaning making and facilitating post-traumatic growth. My clients are those affected by childhood trauma / attachment traumas, re-living emotional pain from the past; dealing with addictive patterns, disordered eating, complex family dynamics, ancestral trauma, relationship issues - family or peers, body image and self-identity.
(02) 9100 0902 View (02) 9100 0902
Photo of Georgie Pearson, Counsellor
Georgie Pearson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Mosman, NSW 2088
In this fast-paced world I offer you a safe space to slow down and be heard. Together we explore your unique experience and discover what makes you feel, think and behave the way you do. You will better understand yourself and make meaning of your life. Key focuses are on repatterning beliefs and behaviours, integrating healing, and creating sustainable change.
In this fast-paced world I offer you a safe space to slow down and be heard. Together we explore your unique experience and discover what makes you feel, think and behave the way you do. You will better understand yourself and make meaning of your life. Key focuses are on repatterning beliefs and behaviours, integrating healing, and creating sustainable change.
(02) 9100 0847 View (02) 9100 0847
Photo of Kate Deakin, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Kate Deakin
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I am a general psychotherapist, counsellor, body psychotherapist, meditation & embodiment teacher. I offer individual therapy & online grounding & embodiment meditation classes. I work with: -Anxiety, depression, difficult emotions -Self-esteem -Chronic pain -Insomnia -Relationship issues -Existential issues: fear of death, illness, isolation, uncertainty, change, loss -Lack of meaning (& fulfilment) -Life goals -'Psychosomatic' issues e.g. chronic fatigue, gastro issues -Grief -Sensitivity -Building resilience -Making decisions -Your relationship with time -'OCD' -'panic attacks' -General life challenges -Breathing related issues
I am a general psychotherapist, counsellor, body psychotherapist, meditation & embodiment teacher. I offer individual therapy & online grounding & embodiment meditation classes. I work with: -Anxiety, depression, difficult emotions -Self-esteem -Chronic pain -Insomnia -Relationship issues -Existential issues: fear of death, illness, isolation, uncertainty, change, loss -Lack of meaning (& fulfilment) -Life goals -'Psychosomatic' issues e.g. chronic fatigue, gastro issues -Grief -Sensitivity -Building resilience -Making decisions -Your relationship with time -'OCD' -'panic attacks' -General life challenges -Breathing related issues
(02) 9100 0463 View (02) 9100 0463
Photo of Chrissy Antonopoulos (Online Telehealth), PsyBA General, Psychologist
Chrissy Antonopoulos (Online Telehealth)
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Chatswood, NSW 2067  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Psychologist working with people experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, eating and body image concerns, stress/life changes, grief/loss, chronic health conditions and disability. I have an interest in assessment and experience with Autism, ADHD, learning, intellectual and adaptive functioning assessments. I can provide reports for NDIS and education/school plans. I have lived experience of disability and work from an affirming, collaborative and empowering framework. I work with people of all ages and am currently only offering Telehealth services.
I am a Registered Psychologist working with people experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, eating and body image concerns, stress/life changes, grief/loss, chronic health conditions and disability. I have an interest in assessment and experience with Autism, ADHD, learning, intellectual and adaptive functioning assessments. I can provide reports for NDIS and education/school plans. I have lived experience of disability and work from an affirming, collaborative and empowering framework. I work with people of all ages and am currently only offering Telehealth services.
(02) 9053 4329 View (02) 9053 4329
Photo of Saba Larijani - Faheem Transpersonal Therapy and Coaching, MSc
Faheem Transpersonal Therapy and Coaching
MSc
Verified Verified
Wollstonecraft, NSW 2065
Hi there, I'm Saba. Informed by my Master of Science in Consciousness, Spirituality and Transpersonal Psychology, as well as my lived experiences, I am committed to helping individuals facing a range of well-being challenges. By delving into the origins of our beliefs and feelings through conscious and compassionate self-exploration, we uncover unique resources within ourselves and our environment that allow us to meet our challenges; physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually and in connection with others. Consequently, we flourish in Self-led, whole-person, balance and harmony.
Hi there, I'm Saba. Informed by my Master of Science in Consciousness, Spirituality and Transpersonal Psychology, as well as my lived experiences, I am committed to helping individuals facing a range of well-being challenges. By delving into the origins of our beliefs and feelings through conscious and compassionate self-exploration, we uncover unique resources within ourselves and our environment that allow us to meet our challenges; physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually and in connection with others. Consequently, we flourish in Self-led, whole-person, balance and harmony.
(02) 9100 0887 View (02) 9100 0887
Photo of Kristy Singh, Counsellor
Kristy Singh
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Sydney, NSW 2060
Would you like to grow in confidence and skill to deepen your connection to your self and the ones you love? Do you want to improve your relationships and wellbeing? If you could benefit from discovering how to be kinder to your self, learning skills like boundaries to improve your relationships or understand and heal from the effects of trauma then I might be the person to help you. Sometimes we need a guide to empower us to explore our inner world and discover tools to help us move forward.
Would you like to grow in confidence and skill to deepen your connection to your self and the ones you love? Do you want to improve your relationships and wellbeing? If you could benefit from discovering how to be kinder to your self, learning skills like boundaries to improve your relationships or understand and heal from the effects of trauma then I might be the person to help you. Sometimes we need a guide to empower us to explore our inner world and discover tools to help us move forward.
(02) 4075 9893 View (02) 4075 9893
Photo of Veronica Engel - Veronica Engel, MAPS, Psychologist
Veronica Engel
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Owner/Director of the Engel Clinic - I have been privileged to work with clients for over 15 years using mindfulness based CBT, ACT, FBT, gut-directed hypnosis, and clinical hypnosis. I work extensively with all kinds of anxiety and stress conditions, gut-brain disorders, and eating disorders (including obesity and ARFID).
Owner/Director of the Engel Clinic - I have been privileged to work with clients for over 15 years using mindfulness based CBT, ACT, FBT, gut-directed hypnosis, and clinical hypnosis. I work extensively with all kinds of anxiety and stress conditions, gut-brain disorders, and eating disorders (including obesity and ARFID).
(02) 8203 8780 View (02) 8203 8780
Photo of Pip Eve, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Pip Eve
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Chatswood, NSW 2067  (Online Only)
I am a warm and down-to-earth Clinical Psychologist. From the outset, I value the importance of developing a safe, therapeutic relationship, holding space for a person to explore their inner and external worlds. I have a particular interest in supporting people with chronic health conditions (e.g., chronic pain, cancer, autoimmune, hormonal conditions), anxiety, depression, stress/burnout, life transitions, relationship difficulties, and people navigating the perinatal period (fertility concerns/pregnancy/postpartum). Individual telehealth sessions and online groups currently available (Meditation group and Mothers Nurture Circle).
I am a warm and down-to-earth Clinical Psychologist. From the outset, I value the importance of developing a safe, therapeutic relationship, holding space for a person to explore their inner and external worlds. I have a particular interest in supporting people with chronic health conditions (e.g., chronic pain, cancer, autoimmune, hormonal conditions), anxiety, depression, stress/burnout, life transitions, relationship difficulties, and people navigating the perinatal period (fertility concerns/pregnancy/postpartum). Individual telehealth sessions and online groups currently available (Meditation group and Mothers Nurture Circle).
(02) 9100 0572 View (02) 9100 0572
Photo of Gaby Browarczyk, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Gaby Browarczyk
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
North Sydney, NSW 2060
I am passionate about supporting thriving, connection and personal growth. Utilizing creative, reflective and trauma informed practices together we work to support positive change in life’s most difficult and complex circumstances. Working in the here and now with what emerges in the therapeutic relationship we discover and uncover new awareness's. Some people don't like being in closed rooms and some enjoy connecting to nature ask me about my walk and talk session for grounding and re-energizing, clearing the mind of rumination, improve circulation, practice deep breathing, relieve body tension, regulate moods and decrease anxiety.
I am passionate about supporting thriving, connection and personal growth. Utilizing creative, reflective and trauma informed practices together we work to support positive change in life’s most difficult and complex circumstances. Working in the here and now with what emerges in the therapeutic relationship we discover and uncover new awareness's. Some people don't like being in closed rooms and some enjoy connecting to nature ask me about my walk and talk session for grounding and re-energizing, clearing the mind of rumination, improve circulation, practice deep breathing, relieve body tension, regulate moods and decrease anxiety.
(08) 6490 9056 View (08) 6490 9056

See more therapy options for Saint Leonards

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.