Chronic Pain Counselling in West Melbourne, VIC

Photo of Rebecca Iannello - Olivewell Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Olivewell Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
West Melbourne, VIC 3003
Rebecca has a special interest in chronic pain management.
Rebecca is an experienced clinical psychologist and director of Olivewell Psychology. She is passionate about providing a safe and compassionate space to ensure clients feel respected, heard and understood. Rebecca has a warm, kind and empathic interpersonal style. She aims to help clients leave sessions with a greater level of insight and awareness into their own experiences, and the confidence and tools to help them navigate life’s challenges.
Rebecca has a special interest in chronic pain management.
Rebecca is an experienced clinical psychologist and director of Olivewell Psychology. She is passionate about providing a safe and compassionate space to ensure clients feel respected, heard and understood. Rebecca has a warm, kind and empathic interpersonal style. She aims to help clients leave sessions with a greater level of insight and awareness into their own experiences, and the confidence and tools to help them navigate life’s challenges.
(03) 7003 2724 View (03) 7003 2724
Photo of Jessica Suetsugu- Clinical Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Jessica Suetsugu- Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
West Melbourne, VIC 3003
I am experienced in helping people overcome the barriers that anxiety, depression, and chronic pain pose to living a meaningful and fulfilling life.
If you struggle with anxiety, stress, low mood or motivation, I can help. Whether you're feeling this way from uni/work stressors, chronic pain/illness, the loss of someone you love, change in life circumstances, or cultural identity issues, I can join you on the journey towards your goals. Through evidence-based therapies, you will develop a stronger sense of confidence in your own abilities and judgement. Even if you don't believe it now, I know that you're more resilient than you give yourself credit for! Trust that you're the expert in your own life.
I am experienced in helping people overcome the barriers that anxiety, depression, and chronic pain pose to living a meaningful and fulfilling life.
If you struggle with anxiety, stress, low mood or motivation, I can help. Whether you're feeling this way from uni/work stressors, chronic pain/illness, the loss of someone you love, change in life circumstances, or cultural identity issues, I can join you on the journey towards your goals. Through evidence-based therapies, you will develop a stronger sense of confidence in your own abilities and judgement. Even if you don't believe it now, I know that you're more resilient than you give yourself credit for! Trust that you're the expert in your own life.
(03) 7003 2125 View (03) 7003 2125
Photo of Austin Chu - Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Org. Psych., Psychologist
Austin Chu - Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Org. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Melbourne, VIC 3003
I have lived experience with ADHD and Chronic Pain and I can appreciate the struggle of feeling 'different' but told to act 'normal'.
Hi, I’m Austin, I have a special interest in ADHD, anxiety, depression, and burnout. I recognise that it takes real strength to seek support and I will always aim to create a safe, supportive, and empowering space as we work together towards your goals. Through my lived experiences, I've learnt to​ really appreciate that we're all human at the end of the day and I strongly believe that everybody deserves to be heard, feel safe to pursue what is right for them, and to know that they are not alone. I'll always work with you and be in your corner with empathy, respect, and understanding.
I have lived experience with ADHD and Chronic Pain and I can appreciate the struggle of feeling 'different' but told to act 'normal'.
Hi, I’m Austin, I have a special interest in ADHD, anxiety, depression, and burnout. I recognise that it takes real strength to seek support and I will always aim to create a safe, supportive, and empowering space as we work together towards your goals. Through my lived experiences, I've learnt to​ really appreciate that we're all human at the end of the day and I strongly believe that everybody deserves to be heard, feel safe to pursue what is right for them, and to know that they are not alone. I'll always work with you and be in your corner with empathy, respect, and understanding.
(03) 7003 2536 View (03) 7003 2536
Photo of Selma Music, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Selma Music
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Melbourne, VIC 3003
Trauma is a deeply personal and complex experience. Often, you may find yourself feeling stuck or unable to move past your trauma. You might feel overwhelmed, sad, anxious, afraid, and/or angry. Trauma can be a deeply isolating experience, and it's not uncommon for you to feel like no one else can truly understand what you are going through. It can sometimes feel like you are carrying a heavy burden that you can't share with others. This may make you feel even more alone and disconnected. Sometimes, you might find it difficult to trust others. You may be grappling with strong emotions like shame, guilt, and self-blame.
Trauma is a deeply personal and complex experience. Often, you may find yourself feeling stuck or unable to move past your trauma. You might feel overwhelmed, sad, anxious, afraid, and/or angry. Trauma can be a deeply isolating experience, and it's not uncommon for you to feel like no one else can truly understand what you are going through. It can sometimes feel like you are carrying a heavy burden that you can't share with others. This may make you feel even more alone and disconnected. Sometimes, you might find it difficult to trust others. You may be grappling with strong emotions like shame, guilt, and self-blame.
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Photo of Helen Werts - RMB Psychology, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
RMB Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
West Melbourne, VIC 3003
The key to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship you and I develop over time. I know that you need to be seen, heard, validated and be able to trust me so I can provide you a safe trauma-informed care and practice. This model focuses on providing you with a safe space to explore and understand your life. I ask 'What happened to you?' and I bear witness to your story. I am an Accredited EMDR Practitioner (Consultant in training), Internal Family Systems Therapist (Level 2-Addictions), and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (in training Advanced). I have also been a Program Assistant on IFSI trainings in Australia.
The key to successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship you and I develop over time. I know that you need to be seen, heard, validated and be able to trust me so I can provide you a safe trauma-informed care and practice. This model focuses on providing you with a safe space to explore and understand your life. I ask 'What happened to you?' and I bear witness to your story. I am an Accredited EMDR Practitioner (Consultant in training), Internal Family Systems Therapist (Level 2-Addictions), and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (in training Advanced). I have also been a Program Assistant on IFSI trainings in Australia.
(03) 8372 0563 View (03) 8372 0563

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christian Long - Chris Long Clinical Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Chris Long Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. A range of different modalities of therapies are offered for a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, chronic pain and personality disorders. I work with adults, adolescents, children and families.
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. A range of different modalities of therapies are offered for a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, chronic pain and personality disorders. I work with adults, adolescents, children and families.
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Photo of Dr Melanie Bertino -  Dr Mel Bertino Worksafe & TAC Clinical Psychology, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Mel Bertino Worksafe & TAC Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Richmond, VIC 3121
I specialize in treating adult clients who have had motor vehicle injury or workplace injury and who have PTSD and/or chronic pain as a result. I charge no additional out of pocket costs for TAC or Worksafe clients. I have extensive experience with treating TAC and Worksafe clients for PTSD, anxiety relating to the accident, persistent pain following the accident, and often with related stress, sleep, relationship and/or mood problems. I also see Medicare clients with similar presenting concerns.
I specialize in treating adult clients who have had motor vehicle injury or workplace injury and who have PTSD and/or chronic pain as a result. I charge no additional out of pocket costs for TAC or Worksafe clients. I have extensive experience with treating TAC and Worksafe clients for PTSD, anxiety relating to the accident, persistent pain following the accident, and often with related stress, sleep, relationship and/or mood problems. I also see Medicare clients with similar presenting concerns.
(03) 9118 9045 View (03) 9118 9045
Photo of Michael Roth, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Michael Roth
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
You may have been struggling for some time. Something isn’t working and life could be better. You have probably tried all sorts of things on your own, but therapy can be a way for you to get a fresh perspective with the help of someone who has an expertise in mental health. I am a Clinical Psychologist who works with people experiencing low mood, anxiety, past trauma, chronic pain, other health conditions, OCD, relationship difficulties, and sleep problems, and those seeking therapy as a way to live a more meaningful life. Most of my clients experience improvements in symptoms after a course of therapy.
You may have been struggling for some time. Something isn’t working and life could be better. You have probably tried all sorts of things on your own, but therapy can be a way for you to get a fresh perspective with the help of someone who has an expertise in mental health. I am a Clinical Psychologist who works with people experiencing low mood, anxiety, past trauma, chronic pain, other health conditions, OCD, relationship difficulties, and sleep problems, and those seeking therapy as a way to live a more meaningful life. Most of my clients experience improvements in symptoms after a course of therapy.
(03) 8338 1871 View (03) 8338 1871
Photo of Lisa Abraham, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Lisa Abraham
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
In my public health role, I am a Clinical Psychologist in Chronic Pain service on the NSW mid-north coast and have previously worked in a Diabetes Clinic at a major public hospital in Sydney.
As your psychologist, I work collaboratively with you to help you pursue a more fulfilling life. That means understanding your needs and therapy preferences and involving you in all decisions about your personalised treatment plan. My compassionate approach means you can trust me to listen without judgement and use evidence-based therapy to help you develop your self-awareness and confidence. The therapies I draw on are strength-based so they emphasise your resilience and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.
In my public health role, I am a Clinical Psychologist in Chronic Pain service on the NSW mid-north coast and have previously worked in a Diabetes Clinic at a major public hospital in Sydney.
As your psychologist, I work collaboratively with you to help you pursue a more fulfilling life. That means understanding your needs and therapy preferences and involving you in all decisions about your personalised treatment plan. My compassionate approach means you can trust me to listen without judgement and use evidence-based therapy to help you develop your self-awareness and confidence. The therapies I draw on are strength-based so they emphasise your resilience and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.
(02) 8105 5060 View (02) 8105 5060
Photo of Kate Deakin, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Kate Deakin
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
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 Amanda Grogan, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Amanda Grogan
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I specialize in sex and intimacy counselling for non-monogamy, polyamory, kink and fetish. I am non-judgmental and believe with clear communication and boundaries these are healthy and beautiful relationship models and experiences. I also specialize in health counselling for chronic illness, chronic pain and invisible illness. I'm passionate about helping people navigate illness diagnosis, develop coping skills and the link between mind and body for pain management. I am empathetic, kind and understanding – and have lived experience with endometriosis which makes me uniquely qualified to work within the community.
I specialize in sex and intimacy counselling for non-monogamy, polyamory, kink and fetish. I am non-judgmental and believe with clear communication and boundaries these are healthy and beautiful relationship models and experiences. I also specialize in health counselling for chronic illness, chronic pain and invisible illness. I'm passionate about helping people navigate illness diagnosis, develop coping skills and the link between mind and body for pain management. I am empathetic, kind and understanding – and have lived experience with endometriosis which makes me uniquely qualified to work within the community.
(07) 5655 7635 View (07) 5655 7635
Photo of Gabrielle Bray - Minutes to Happy Counselling, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Minutes to Happy Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Are you facing a stressful life situation, Chronic pain, a chronic health condition, an eating disorder, tinnitus, or challenged with a mental health struggle? I'm here to help. Are you facing challenges like...holding off on dreams and goals you care deeply about? Struggling to smile on the hard days? Longing to adventure outdoors and get active? Worrying about what the future holds? Nervously navigating relationships? difficulty maintaining a sense of meaning and purpose? Managing pain and discomfort, all while managing the demands of work and family life? Counselling provides support and progress in your health, life, and goals.
Are you facing a stressful life situation, Chronic pain, a chronic health condition, an eating disorder, tinnitus, or challenged with a mental health struggle? I'm here to help. Are you facing challenges like...holding off on dreams and goals you care deeply about? Struggling to smile on the hard days? Longing to adventure outdoors and get active? Worrying about what the future holds? Nervously navigating relationships? difficulty maintaining a sense of meaning and purpose? Managing pain and discomfort, all while managing the demands of work and family life? Counselling provides support and progress in your health, life, and goals.
(02) 4503 4975 View (02) 4503 4975
Photo of Sarah Dakhili, AMHSW, Counsellor
Sarah Dakhili
Counsellor, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
Sarah is a Psychotherapist and Mental Health Social Worker. She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 13 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD. Her motto is simple: “Supporting clients in creating authentic power within themselves and in turn being able to make what was once difficult, easier”.
Sarah is a Psychotherapist and Mental Health Social Worker. She has been working within the field of mind-body disorders (MBD) for over 13 years, specialising in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) chronic pain, trauma recovery and Tension Myositis Syndrome (TMS), including other challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, Fibromyalgia and PTSD. Her motto is simple: “Supporting clients in creating authentic power within themselves and in turn being able to make what was once difficult, easier”.
(07) 3130 0085 View (07) 3130 0085
Photo of Lisa Winther, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Lisa Winther
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
Currently, I'm focused on blending my private practice with my work in the public sector, where I specialise in chronic pain management.
Hello there! I'm an experienced counselling psychologist and registered supervisor, dedicated to helping individuals find their path and unlock new possibilities through therapeutic engagement and evidence-informed techniques. I'm really passionate about emotionally focused therapies. Why? Because I've seen how exploring emotional patterns can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and others, paving the way for tackling life's hurdles with greater clarity and resilience.
Currently, I'm focused on blending my private practice with my work in the public sector, where I specialise in chronic pain management.
Hello there! I'm an experienced counselling psychologist and registered supervisor, dedicated to helping individuals find their path and unlock new possibilities through therapeutic engagement and evidence-informed techniques. I'm really passionate about emotionally focused therapies. Why? Because I've seen how exploring emotional patterns can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and others, paving the way for tackling life's hurdles with greater clarity and resilience.
(03) 7003 2135 View (03) 7003 2135
Photo of Angela Simpson, PsychD, PsyBA - Health Psych., Psychologist
Angela Simpson
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
Angela's expertise is particularly notable in her work with clients living with complex medical conditions and chronic pain, providing transformative care for those dealing with complex emotional and psychological challenges.
Angela is a health psychologist who is passionate about providing high quality, evidence-based treatment. She supports clients who experience a range of issues including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, chronic health conditions such as fibromyalgia, and substance use issues. Additionally, Angela has an interest in women's health including issues relating to pregnancy and menopause.
Angela's expertise is particularly notable in her work with clients living with complex medical conditions and chronic pain, providing transformative care for those dealing with complex emotional and psychological challenges.
Angela is a health psychologist who is passionate about providing high quality, evidence-based treatment. She supports clients who experience a range of issues including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, chronic health conditions such as fibromyalgia, and substance use issues. Additionally, Angela has an interest in women's health including issues relating to pregnancy and menopause.
(03) 8338 4007 View (03) 8338 4007
Photo of Leigh Milne - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Leigh Milne - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
(03) 7003 2164 View (03) 7003 2164
Photo of Kate Wallace-Boyd, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kate Wallace-Boyd
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
Her areas of further interest include chronic pain, long-term health conditions, women's health, child and adolescent issues, sexuality and gender, stress management, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, self-compassion, and general counseling.
Kate (she/her) brings a collaborative, authentic, and compassionate approach, driven by her passion to equip clients with the tools and support necessary for achieving their goals and leading fulfilling lives. Working across all age groups, from children to older adults, Kate offers both brief and long-term interventions. She incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), along with other modalities, ensuring flexibility and tailoring her approach to each individual's needs.
Her areas of further interest include chronic pain, long-term health conditions, women's health, child and adolescent issues, sexuality and gender, stress management, anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and loss, self-compassion, and general counseling.
Kate (she/her) brings a collaborative, authentic, and compassionate approach, driven by her passion to equip clients with the tools and support necessary for achieving their goals and leading fulfilling lives. Working across all age groups, from children to older adults, Kate offers both brief and long-term interventions. She incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), along with other modalities, ensuring flexibility and tailoring her approach to each individual's needs.
(03) 7003 2215 View (03) 7003 2215
Photo of Michael Peyton, MSc, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Michael Peyton
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Carlton North, VIC 3054
We provide counselling and psychotherapy for individuals and couples, delivered by registered psychologists. We can help if you are experiencing: depression; anxiety; excessive stress; loss or grief; problems with conflict; distressing relationships; addictive behaviours; chronic pain; or traumatic memories. We aim to assist our clients not just to recover from mental health difficulties, but to also experience: greater self-acceptance; enhanced well-being; more satisfying relationships; and a more meaningful life.
We provide counselling and psychotherapy for individuals and couples, delivered by registered psychologists. We can help if you are experiencing: depression; anxiety; excessive stress; loss or grief; problems with conflict; distressing relationships; addictive behaviours; chronic pain; or traumatic memories. We aim to assist our clients not just to recover from mental health difficulties, but to also experience: greater self-acceptance; enhanced well-being; more satisfying relationships; and a more meaningful life.
(03) 9068 5213 View (03) 9068 5213
Photo of Nikki Bray, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Nikki Bray
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
Clinical Psychologist and Owner at BrayPsych Clinical Psychology on the Gold Coast. I have availability for new adult clients for therapy via telehealth only. I also offer neuroaffirming Autism assessments for adults. I I like to describe myself as an enthusiastic and compassionate therapist. My values are empowerment, self-advocacy and authenticity. I provide support for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, panic, phobias, OCD, chronic pain, emotion dysregulation difficulties, insomnia, perimenopause, low self-esteem, perfectionism, autistic burnout, and supporting neurodivergent adults.
Clinical Psychologist and Owner at BrayPsych Clinical Psychology on the Gold Coast. I have availability for new adult clients for therapy via telehealth only. I also offer neuroaffirming Autism assessments for adults. I I like to describe myself as an enthusiastic and compassionate therapist. My values are empowerment, self-advocacy and authenticity. I provide support for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, panic, phobias, OCD, chronic pain, emotion dysregulation difficulties, insomnia, perimenopause, low self-esteem, perfectionism, autistic burnout, and supporting neurodivergent adults.
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Photo of Gus Norris, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist
Gus Norris
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist with extensive experience who specialises in working with people who have mental health difficulties which affect their wellbeing and ability to function as they wish. I assist clients with depression, anxiety, anger, sleep problems, schizophrenia and chronic pain. Over many years of working with clients I have found Cognitive Behavioural to be a very valuable treatment for these conditions.
I am a clinical psychologist with extensive experience who specialises in working with people who have mental health difficulties which affect their wellbeing and ability to function as they wish. I assist clients with depression, anxiety, anger, sleep problems, schizophrenia and chronic pain. Over many years of working with clients I have found Cognitive Behavioural to be a very valuable treatment for these conditions.
(02) 9100 0562 View (02) 9100 0562

See more therapy options for West Melbourne

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.