Chronic Illness Counselling in Cheltenham

Photo of Chris Matcham, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Chris Matcham
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL52
The struggles of living with and managing a chronic illness/disability can feel immensely heavy and frustrating, but we can work to find a lighter way of being.
Let's work together to figure out the next steps to feeling better: Seeking help, as you are doing by searching this site, is a brave and important step in satisfying your own needs - in doing this, you are already creating some relief and a pathway towards yourself as you wish to be. You may feel lost or confused as to what comes next, but you have already shown that you can think in new ways and adapt in order to change a situation which isn’t working for you. Our task is to get in touch with feelings that can further open up your awareness, to allow change to happen.
The struggles of living with and managing a chronic illness/disability can feel immensely heavy and frustrating, but we can work to find a lighter way of being.
Let's work together to figure out the next steps to feeling better: Seeking help, as you are doing by searching this site, is a brave and important step in satisfying your own needs - in doing this, you are already creating some relief and a pathway towards yourself as you wish to be. You may feel lost or confused as to what comes next, but you have already shown that you can think in new ways and adapt in order to change a situation which isn’t working for you. Our task is to get in touch with feelings that can further open up your awareness, to allow change to happen.
07480 538802 View 07480 538802
Photo of Katrina Jones, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Katrina Jones
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
Life is full of challenges, and we can all struggle to cope with the impact of difficult events or circumstances. Therapy can be a useful support in navigating tricky periods and can help people deal with distress in a way that minimises its impact on quality of life. I work with individuals in a collaborative way, using a process of formulation to develop a shared understanding of psychological difficulties. The direction and content of our work will depend on an individual’s personal goals for the future and can range from exploratory work to a more structured approach focusing on the development of self-management skills.
Life is full of challenges, and we can all struggle to cope with the impact of difficult events or circumstances. Therapy can be a useful support in navigating tricky periods and can help people deal with distress in a way that minimises its impact on quality of life. I work with individuals in a collaborative way, using a process of formulation to develop a shared understanding of psychological difficulties. The direction and content of our work will depend on an individual’s personal goals for the future and can range from exploratory work to a more structured approach focusing on the development of self-management skills.
01452 228699 View 01452 228699
Photo of Keira Lianne Rowlands - KeiraLianne Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
KeiraLianne Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
I hope to offer a safe space, warm and trusting environment and non-judgemental relationship, where we can discuss the difficult and uncomfortable elements of your life. Be those early life experiences and relationships, significant life events (pregnancy/birth/death/marriage/divorce), anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, identity, sense of self, loss or diagnosis.
I hope to offer a safe space, warm and trusting environment and non-judgemental relationship, where we can discuss the difficult and uncomfortable elements of your life. Be those early life experiences and relationships, significant life events (pregnancy/birth/death/marriage/divorce), anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, identity, sense of self, loss or diagnosis.
01242 903226 View 01242 903226
Photo of Elizabeth Hale, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist
Elizabeth Hale
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
I work with adult clients who feel they need some help taking care of their psychological well-being. I can help with: Anxiety; social anxiety; health anxiety; stress and "burnout". Low mood and depression. I can work with clients to achieve life transitions and promote compassionate self-care. I have expertise in working with people who have chronic physical health conditions, particularly rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders, chronic pain; fibromyalgia; chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME) and can assist in the management of "long covid". I use Mindfulness and provide a future-focused therapeutic approach.
I work with adult clients who feel they need some help taking care of their psychological well-being. I can help with: Anxiety; social anxiety; health anxiety; stress and "burnout". Low mood and depression. I can work with clients to achieve life transitions and promote compassionate self-care. I have expertise in working with people who have chronic physical health conditions, particularly rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders, chronic pain; fibromyalgia; chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME) and can assist in the management of "long covid". I use Mindfulness and provide a future-focused therapeutic approach.
01386 576909 View 01386 576909
Photo of Claire King, MBACP, Counsellor
Claire King
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Counselling for adults, young people 13+ and couples in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire with fully qualified, experienced counsellor. ​Counselling can help with difficult feelings like anxiety, depression, grief, anger, loneliness and low self-esteem. Counselling can help you cope better with issues such as loss, relationship difficulties, stress, past traumas. Counselling can help you learn about yourself- your wants and needs – and how to meet them. ​Counselling for couples can help you remember what is right with your relationship, find ways to communicate more effectively and work together on what is difficult
Counselling for adults, young people 13+ and couples in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire with fully qualified, experienced counsellor. ​Counselling can help with difficult feelings like anxiety, depression, grief, anger, loneliness and low self-esteem. Counselling can help you cope better with issues such as loss, relationship difficulties, stress, past traumas. Counselling can help you learn about yourself- your wants and needs – and how to meet them. ​Counselling for couples can help you remember what is right with your relationship, find ways to communicate more effectively and work together on what is difficult
01242 903215 View 01242 903215
Photo of Rachel Power The Walk And Talk Therapist, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Rachel Power The Walk And Talk Therapist
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
I am an experienced counsellor PROVIDING THERAPY IN THE OUTDOORS. Sometimes we want to talk but sitting in a counselling room might not feel like the right space for you. WALKING WHILST TALKING might just give you the space and freedom to begin to understand some uncomfortable feelings and past experiences in the safe hands of myself within nature. Being in nature will help you to learn how to resource yourself whilst processing the past giving you a clearer feel of the future. You may feel anxious or depressed, struggling with relationships. I work from Pittville Park, The Cotswolds and Crickley Hill. I also do home visits.
I am an experienced counsellor PROVIDING THERAPY IN THE OUTDOORS. Sometimes we want to talk but sitting in a counselling room might not feel like the right space for you. WALKING WHILST TALKING might just give you the space and freedom to begin to understand some uncomfortable feelings and past experiences in the safe hands of myself within nature. Being in nature will help you to learn how to resource yourself whilst processing the past giving you a clearer feel of the future. You may feel anxious or depressed, struggling with relationships. I work from Pittville Park, The Cotswolds and Crickley Hill. I also do home visits.
07961 627500 View 07961 627500
Photo of Shelley Marie Alcock - Cheltenham’s Counselling Centre  , DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Cheltenham’s Counselling Centre
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Hello my name is Shelley and I am a qualified adult and child Therapeutic Counsellor. I have a vast amount of experience as a pastoral worker working in schools and as a counsellor working for a charity. I am a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and offer face to face or online sessions . These sessions provide a confidential, supportive environment where clients can feel safe and explore the work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe by offering online counselling this gives each individual the ability to reach their true potential within the safety of their chosen space.
Hello my name is Shelley and I am a qualified adult and child Therapeutic Counsellor. I have a vast amount of experience as a pastoral worker working in schools and as a counsellor working for a charity. I am a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and offer face to face or online sessions . These sessions provide a confidential, supportive environment where clients can feel safe and explore the work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe by offering online counselling this gives each individual the ability to reach their true potential within the safety of their chosen space.
01242 339245 View 01242 339245
Photo of Anne Coats, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Anne Coats
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL52
I am a fully qualified and registered psychotherapist and supervisor working with adults, adolescents and relationships. Sometimes life can be challenging, we can feel lost or stuck or that we have no control over what is happening. Counselling can provide vital relief. If you suffer with depression, anxiety,relationship issues, grief, trauma or anger management, I am hear to support you. I offer a warm, reflective, non-judgemental and confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences. I will provide the compassionate support you need to find effective solutions to any issue you may have. ​
I am a fully qualified and registered psychotherapist and supervisor working with adults, adolescents and relationships. Sometimes life can be challenging, we can feel lost or stuck or that we have no control over what is happening. Counselling can provide vital relief. If you suffer with depression, anxiety,relationship issues, grief, trauma or anger management, I am hear to support you. I offer a warm, reflective, non-judgemental and confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences. I will provide the compassionate support you need to find effective solutions to any issue you may have. ​
01242 903657 View 01242 903657
Photo of Dr Hannah Barnes, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Hannah Barnes
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL52
If you are experiencing self-criticism, low mood, anxiety, or struggling with the impact of trauma, then I can help you. Perhaps you want to feel more confident, have more self-compassion, or want to find a way to better manage anxiety or negative thoughts. Perhaps you never had a chance to talk about or process what has happened to you in your life. You might be doing well in life, successful in your career or with your family, but something is still feeling missing. If any of this sounds like you, then get in touch and we can discuss how I can help you.
If you are experiencing self-criticism, low mood, anxiety, or struggling with the impact of trauma, then I can help you. Perhaps you want to feel more confident, have more self-compassion, or want to find a way to better manage anxiety or negative thoughts. Perhaps you never had a chance to talk about or process what has happened to you in your life. You might be doing well in life, successful in your career or with your family, but something is still feeling missing. If any of this sounds like you, then get in touch and we can discuss how I can help you.
01242 569951 View 01242 569951
Photo of Sarah Bolton-Locke, DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Sarah Bolton-Locke
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
I have a face to face and online counselling practice based in Cheltenham and Gloucester, offering warm and accepting therapy for adults and children. Having a non-judgmental and safe space will give you the opportunity to explore whatever you may be struggling with.
I have a face to face and online counselling practice based in Cheltenham and Gloucester, offering warm and accepting therapy for adults and children. Having a non-judgmental and safe space will give you the opportunity to explore whatever you may be struggling with.
01452 934579 View 01452 934579
Photo of Susannah Newell, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Susannah Newell
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL53
Hello. As an experienced psychotherapist, I can help you manage current life challenges like sudden changes or losses; anxiety; relationship issues; bereavement; loneliness; parenthood; depression or past experiences intruding on your present. Sometimes clients come with a more general sense of unfulfilment or want to know themselves better. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to share your load, rather than carrying it alone. Psychotherapy offers vital connection, support and opportunity to work things through with an empathic, trained professional totally unconnected to your life.
Hello. As an experienced psychotherapist, I can help you manage current life challenges like sudden changes or losses; anxiety; relationship issues; bereavement; loneliness; parenthood; depression or past experiences intruding on your present. Sometimes clients come with a more general sense of unfulfilment or want to know themselves better. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to share your load, rather than carrying it alone. Psychotherapy offers vital connection, support and opportunity to work things through with an empathic, trained professional totally unconnected to your life.
01242 650306 View 01242 650306
Photo of Louise Ann Adamson - Come Alongside, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Come Alongside
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL53
My aim is to come alongside you - to really listen and understand how you experience life. I work collaboratively - taking into account what you want and need and how you want to work. I will also offer insights and suggestions if I think this may be of help to you, without directing our work together. My hope is to help you make sense of your experiences and associated symptoms, such as: Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Low self-esteem, patterns of behaviours and relating or coping mechanisms which may no longer helpful. Improved self understanding and compassion will help you foster new ways of being, feeling and behaving.
My aim is to come alongside you - to really listen and understand how you experience life. I work collaboratively - taking into account what you want and need and how you want to work. I will also offer insights and suggestions if I think this may be of help to you, without directing our work together. My hope is to help you make sense of your experiences and associated symptoms, such as: Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Low self-esteem, patterns of behaviours and relating or coping mechanisms which may no longer helpful. Improved self understanding and compassion will help you foster new ways of being, feeling and behaving.
01242 903233 View 01242 903233
Photo of Dr Priya Bunnell, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Priya Bunnell
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
As a clinical psychologist, I work with children, young people and adults to explore and develop a shared understanding of how their experiences and circumstances - past and present - may be contributing to current difficulties, before identifying possible solutions to help alleviate distress. By drawing on different therapeutic approaches, models and techniques, I am able to provide a flexible and tailored service where sometimes the process of talking openly can in itself be transformative as new meanings and stories emerge, while at other times specific skills and strategies are used to create positive change and difference.
As a clinical psychologist, I work with children, young people and adults to explore and develop a shared understanding of how their experiences and circumstances - past and present - may be contributing to current difficulties, before identifying possible solutions to help alleviate distress. By drawing on different therapeutic approaches, models and techniques, I am able to provide a flexible and tailored service where sometimes the process of talking openly can in itself be transformative as new meanings and stories emerge, while at other times specific skills and strategies are used to create positive change and difference.
01242 903148 View 01242 903148
Photo of Ben Crumpler - Therapy with Ben , MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Therapy with Ben
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Hi, I am Ben an enthusiastic and friendly therapist working in the Cheltenham area, my Private Practice is Therapy with Ben. I work in an integrative way with my main approach being person-centred therapy, this is because I truly believe you are the expert in your own life. We can work together to make sure you get the most from life. I fully understand that if you are looking here then it is likely that things are not going as you would wish at the moment. Counselling is a great way to deal with lives difficulties and maximise the enjoyment you get from your own life, I truly believe this.
Hi, I am Ben an enthusiastic and friendly therapist working in the Cheltenham area, my Private Practice is Therapy with Ben. I work in an integrative way with my main approach being person-centred therapy, this is because I truly believe you are the expert in your own life. We can work together to make sure you get the most from life. I fully understand that if you are looking here then it is likely that things are not going as you would wish at the moment. Counselling is a great way to deal with lives difficulties and maximise the enjoyment you get from your own life, I truly believe this.
01242 501462 View 01242 501462
Photo of Dr Jess Rayner, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jess Rayner
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL53
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome, I am a registered Clinical Psychologist offering high quality, compassionate, therapy. You may be here because you are feeling anxious, dealing with the impact of traumatic or difficult events, stressed, or perhaps struggling with low self-esteem or critical self-talk. I create a non-judgemental space where we can work together to identify the source of your troubles, reduce distress, and build new skills and perspectives. Specialist interests include anxiety, trauma, burnout and stress, and long-term health conditions (e.g., pain/fatigue).
Welcome, I am a registered Clinical Psychologist offering high quality, compassionate, therapy. You may be here because you are feeling anxious, dealing with the impact of traumatic or difficult events, stressed, or perhaps struggling with low self-esteem or critical self-talk. I create a non-judgemental space where we can work together to identify the source of your troubles, reduce distress, and build new skills and perspectives. Specialist interests include anxiety, trauma, burnout and stress, and long-term health conditions (e.g., pain/fatigue).
01248 663871 View 01248 663871
Photo of Jen Edwards, MBACP, Counsellor
Jen Edwards
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
I recognise that life is a journey that can sometimes be a struggle. Life in this modern world is often chaotic, stressful and moves at such a fast pace, yet our reptilian brains are still designed to deal with cave man threats. This can lead to our bodies being flooded with fight, flight or freeze responses. In time these can build and lead to conditions such as anxiety, depression and low level trauma if not dealt with correctly. Having the support to help you through is not always easy to find.
I recognise that life is a journey that can sometimes be a struggle. Life in this modern world is often chaotic, stressful and moves at such a fast pace, yet our reptilian brains are still designed to deal with cave man threats. This can lead to our bodies being flooded with fight, flight or freeze responses. In time these can build and lead to conditions such as anxiety, depression and low level trauma if not dealt with correctly. Having the support to help you through is not always easy to find.
01242 903218 View 01242 903218
Photo of Cathy Cook - Cathy Cook - New Life Counselling , MBACP, Psychotherapist
Cathy Cook - New Life Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
All of us, at some point in our lives, are likely to feel overwhelmed by our feelings and/or circumstances. Relationship breakdowns, single parenting, bereavement, loss, family issues, depression, anxiety, etc. can leave us struggling to function as well as we would like. I am passionate about supporting my clients through difficult situations and empowering them to reach their full potential. I can offer you a confidential, supportive, welcoming and non-judgemental space where we can look together at what is distressing you and find the best way forward.
All of us, at some point in our lives, are likely to feel overwhelmed by our feelings and/or circumstances. Relationship breakdowns, single parenting, bereavement, loss, family issues, depression, anxiety, etc. can leave us struggling to function as well as we would like. I am passionate about supporting my clients through difficult situations and empowering them to reach their full potential. I can offer you a confidential, supportive, welcoming and non-judgemental space where we can look together at what is distressing you and find the best way forward.
01242 386010 View 01242 386010
Photo of Debbie Barron, MBACP, Counsellor
Debbie Barron
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL52
We all need help as it can be hard when you are struggling with issues in life and with stressful situations. You might be feeling anxious, stuck or even overwhelmed and unable to tackle life's challenges on your own. I'm a qualified, BACP registered and experienced Humanistic counsellor practising in Cheltenham and West London. I offer non-judgemental, supportive and understanding counselling, provided in a safe space, where you can explore and express what is troubling you. I am committed to helping my clients make sense of and work through their difficulties to make changes that are important to them.
We all need help as it can be hard when you are struggling with issues in life and with stressful situations. You might be feeling anxious, stuck or even overwhelmed and unable to tackle life's challenges on your own. I'm a qualified, BACP registered and experienced Humanistic counsellor practising in Cheltenham and West London. I offer non-judgemental, supportive and understanding counselling, provided in a safe space, where you can explore and express what is troubling you. I am committed to helping my clients make sense of and work through their difficulties to make changes that are important to them.
01748 902228 View 01748 902228
Photo of Dawn Andrei, MBACP, Counsellor
Dawn Andrei
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Are you struggling with your emotions, overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship difficulties? Perhaps stuck in destructive habitual behavioural patterns, or addictive behaviours without understanding why? I offer a safe and empathetic environment to support your growth in developing self-awareness, through a range of therapeutic approaches, building a bespoke tool kit of coping techniques to support you work through your difficulties, develop emotional regulation and make the desired changes in your life.
Are you struggling with your emotions, overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, grief, or relationship difficulties? Perhaps stuck in destructive habitual behavioural patterns, or addictive behaviours without understanding why? I offer a safe and empathetic environment to support your growth in developing self-awareness, through a range of therapeutic approaches, building a bespoke tool kit of coping techniques to support you work through your difficulties, develop emotional regulation and make the desired changes in your life.
01452 941827 View 01452 941827
Photo of Julie Ingram, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Julie Ingram
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Hello, and welcome to my page. I have been qualified as a psychotherapist and supervisor for over 18 years, with previous experience in mental health and Social Work Management. I work with adults, children, adolescents and have expertise in working with family issues. I can help with a wide range of matters including: anxiety and depression, self esteem, family difficulties, relationship issues, Childhood abuse, Childhood neglect, Life threatening events, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and trauma. I provide a welcoming, safe space (indoors or out doors) which provides a relationship based approach to working together.
Hello, and welcome to my page. I have been qualified as a psychotherapist and supervisor for over 18 years, with previous experience in mental health and Social Work Management. I work with adults, children, adolescents and have expertise in working with family issues. I can help with a wide range of matters including: anxiety and depression, self esteem, family difficulties, relationship issues, Childhood abuse, Childhood neglect, Life threatening events, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and trauma. I provide a welcoming, safe space (indoors or out doors) which provides a relationship based approach to working together.
01981 200129 View 01981 200129
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See more therapy options for Cheltenham

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.