Chronic Illness Counselling in Manchester

Photo of Rachel Hawkins, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Rachel Hawkins
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester M30
I am a Trainee Health Psychologist supervised by a Principle Health Psychologist in the NHS and with a private practice. My training is accredited by the British Psychological Society. I support people with chronic illness such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease and other chronic bowel conditions. I have lived experience from close family members with IBD and bowel conditions, hence my training in this area. I would like to support you to get back to living the life you want, by helping you take control of the things that you can and to help you live a life which is meaningful to you.
I am a Trainee Health Psychologist supervised by a Principle Health Psychologist in the NHS and with a private practice. My training is accredited by the British Psychological Society. I support people with chronic illness such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease and other chronic bowel conditions. I have lived experience from close family members with IBD and bowel conditions, hence my training in this area. I would like to support you to get back to living the life you want, by helping you take control of the things that you can and to help you live a life which is meaningful to you.
0161 524 7501 View 0161 524 7501
Photo of Dr Louise Roper, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist
Dr Louise Roper
Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manchester M1  (Online Only)
I can help by supporting clients to manage chronic illness and the changes that go with chronic illness (E.
I am a Principal Health Psychologist (part time) in the NHS who supports people with chronic illness, including Long Covid. I also support people with a range of physical health issues as well as with their sleep, fatigue, worry and other illness related issues. I would like to help you get back to the life you want to live and support you to live well despite what is going on for you at this point in time. I also work with people who are experiencing burnout or stress, anxiety or depression. I am qualified to assess and diagnosis ADHD
I can help by supporting clients to manage chronic illness and the changes that go with chronic illness (E.
I am a Principal Health Psychologist (part time) in the NHS who supports people with chronic illness, including Long Covid. I also support people with a range of physical health issues as well as with their sleep, fatigue, worry and other illness related issues. I would like to help you get back to the life you want to live and support you to live well despite what is going on for you at this point in time. I also work with people who are experiencing burnout or stress, anxiety or depression. I am qualified to assess and diagnosis ADHD
01923 961962 View 01923 961962
Photo of Claire Shaw - Claire Shaw Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Claire Shaw Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester M1  (Online Only)
Although each person’s situation is unique, some of the many issues I work with include: bereavement and other losses; exploring gender, sex and relationship diversity, and offering an affirming approach to LGBTQ+ clients; chronic illness and disability; relationship issues; the impact of the pandemic and COVID-19.
Are you feeling anxious or struggling? This could be through a bereavement, or difficulties in a relationship. Perhaps health issues such as chronic illness, disability or menopause have affected how you are feeling. Maybe work is causing you stress, or you have been made redundant. Do you feel misunderstood or not heard? Maybe you don’t have somewhere you feel supported to be yourself and to speak freely. Perhaps you feel like you don't have anyone to talk to who understands. You may need a place to be heard and to explore your feelings.
Although each person’s situation is unique, some of the many issues I work with include: bereavement and other losses; exploring gender, sex and relationship diversity, and offering an affirming approach to LGBTQ+ clients; chronic illness and disability; relationship issues; the impact of the pandemic and COVID-19.
Are you feeling anxious or struggling? This could be through a bereavement, or difficulties in a relationship. Perhaps health issues such as chronic illness, disability or menopause have affected how you are feeling. Maybe work is causing you stress, or you have been made redundant. Do you feel misunderstood or not heard? Maybe you don’t have somewhere you feel supported to be yourself and to speak freely. Perhaps you feel like you don't have anyone to talk to who understands. You may need a place to be heard and to explore your feelings.
020 4538 3657 View 020 4538 3657
Photo of Jules Haley, MBACP, Counsellor
Jules Haley
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Manchester M1
I’m a queer person-centred therapist and clinical supervisor offering long or short term, individual and couples/ relationship counselling online and in Worthing/Brighton. I use the pronouns ‘she/they’. I work with adults (18+) who have a range of life experiences including trauma/abuse, chronic illness, alcohol issues, sexual health, sexuality and gender. I work with people from a range of cultural backgrounds including queer, poly and and kink communities, neurodiversity, asexuality, and people who identify or questioning across the gender spectrum. I am committed to providing an inclusive, safe and confidential space.
I’m a queer person-centred therapist and clinical supervisor offering long or short term, individual and couples/ relationship counselling online and in Worthing/Brighton. I use the pronouns ‘she/they’. I work with adults (18+) who have a range of life experiences including trauma/abuse, chronic illness, alcohol issues, sexual health, sexuality and gender. I work with people from a range of cultural backgrounds including queer, poly and and kink communities, neurodiversity, asexuality, and people who identify or questioning across the gender spectrum. I am committed to providing an inclusive, safe and confidential space.
020 3960 5056 View 020 3960 5056
Photo of Laura Dixon, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Laura Dixon
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Manchester M16
My area of expertise is loss, and helping clients deal with it in all its forms, which includes bereavement, job loss, relationship breakdowns, loss of sense of self (which includes depression, anxiety, chronic illness, disability or medical / healthcare diagnosis) and all of the many other life changes that may happen outside of your control.
My area of expertise is loss, and helping clients deal with it in all its forms, which includes bereavement, job loss, relationship breakdowns, loss of sense of self (which includes depression, anxiety, chronic illness, disability or medical / healthcare diagnosis) and all of the many other life changes that may happen outside of your control.
0161 524 7467 View 0161 524 7467
Photo of Laura Elizabeth Mott, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Laura Elizabeth Mott
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester M4  (Online Only)
Counselling allows you the space to explore your feelings, discomforts, confusion and anxieties. Life can be stressful and overwhelming, sometimes it is difficult to reach out for help. Whatever you are experiencing, by searching for a counsellor you have taken the first step towards investing in yourself. My approach to counselling is integrative, this means that I use different approaches and techniques to meet your needs. Alongside counselling, my previous work has included working with individuals with different learning disabilities, mental health needs and chronic illness.
Counselling allows you the space to explore your feelings, discomforts, confusion and anxieties. Life can be stressful and overwhelming, sometimes it is difficult to reach out for help. Whatever you are experiencing, by searching for a counsellor you have taken the first step towards investing in yourself. My approach to counselling is integrative, this means that I use different approaches and techniques to meet your needs. Alongside counselling, my previous work has included working with individuals with different learning disabilities, mental health needs and chronic illness.
020 3835 3197 View 020 3835 3197
Photo of Dr Hoyin Chan, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Hoyin Chan
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Manchester M1
I am a Principal Clinical Psychologist and have worked in various mental health services in the NHS for over 20 years. I have worked in many clinical health services, including burns and plastics, respiratory, cancer and HIV services. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, CFT and ACT. I am passionate in working with people presenting with life-changing physical health conditions, relationships difficulties and low self-esteem. We will work together addressing your psychological needs, ranging from unmanageable stress to childhood trauma, to being stuck in patterns of unsuccessful or broken relationships, in addition to depression and anxiety.
I am a Principal Clinical Psychologist and have worked in various mental health services in the NHS for over 20 years. I have worked in many clinical health services, including burns and plastics, respiratory, cancer and HIV services. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, CFT and ACT. I am passionate in working with people presenting with life-changing physical health conditions, relationships difficulties and low self-esteem. We will work together addressing your psychological needs, ranging from unmanageable stress to childhood trauma, to being stuck in patterns of unsuccessful or broken relationships, in addition to depression and anxiety.
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Photo of Teresa Loftus, BACP, Counsellor
Teresa Loftus
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Manchester M16
I am an experienced, qualified counsellor working with adults and young people in Trafford, South Manchester., My area of provision includes supporting adults with issues ranging from anxiety, stress, grief, depression, narcissistic behaviours and traits, self-worth issues, low self-esteem, isolation, worry, identity loss, and family or relationship issues, including my specialism in men's mental health and well-being.
I am an experienced, qualified counsellor working with adults and young people in Trafford, South Manchester., My area of provision includes supporting adults with issues ranging from anxiety, stress, grief, depression, narcissistic behaviours and traits, self-worth issues, low self-esteem, isolation, worry, identity loss, and family or relationship issues, including my specialism in men's mental health and well-being.
0161 524 7334 View 0161 524 7334
Photo of Sarah Ankamah, MBACP, Counsellor
Sarah Ankamah
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Manchester M43  (Online Only)
Sometimes the road gets rough, and the things we've always found so easy to do suddenly become overwhelming, that's when we need someone to talk to; Someone to listen and possibly shed a light in the darkness. Or maybe even someone just to be there.
Sometimes the road gets rough, and the things we've always found so easy to do suddenly become overwhelming, that's when we need someone to talk to; Someone to listen and possibly shed a light in the darkness. Or maybe even someone just to be there.
0161 694 6465 View 0161 694 6465
Photo of Dr Neesha Patel, PhD, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist
Dr Neesha Patel
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Manchester M23
Are you struggling to come to terms with a new health condition, or having a hard time managing a long-term health condition, or need support with making lifestyle changes such as weight, diet, eating habits, poor sleep, & exercise? Making changes is hard and can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression and hopelessness. I am a Senior Health Psychologist (part-time) in the NHS and work with patients living with diabetes and other chronic illnesses. I work with health professionals experiencing difficult issues at work or in their home life due to Long Covid. I can help you live the life you want and provide the support you need.
Are you struggling to come to terms with a new health condition, or having a hard time managing a long-term health condition, or need support with making lifestyle changes such as weight, diet, eating habits, poor sleep, & exercise? Making changes is hard and can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression and hopelessness. I am a Senior Health Psychologist (part-time) in the NHS and work with patients living with diabetes and other chronic illnesses. I work with health professionals experiencing difficult issues at work or in their home life due to Long Covid. I can help you live the life you want and provide the support you need.
0161 524 2098 View 0161 524 2098
Photo of Rashida Mustafa, MA, GMBPsS, Psychotherapist
Rashida Mustafa
Psychotherapist, MA, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Manchester M20
At this point in your life when you are looking for therapy, you may have a hunch that the burden you carry has grown too much to hold on your own and somebody needs to hear you out. Many conversations heal, but the difference between a psychologist and a friend is that looking at things with the tools and theories we have at our disposal can help you define the problem, perhaps reframe it and then resolve it. That is the starting point for feeling better. You may wonder whether anything can really help, because everything may seem complicated and deep, but the wonder of your own self is waiting for you to unfold.
At this point in your life when you are looking for therapy, you may have a hunch that the burden you carry has grown too much to hold on your own and somebody needs to hear you out. Many conversations heal, but the difference between a psychologist and a friend is that looking at things with the tools and theories we have at our disposal can help you define the problem, perhaps reframe it and then resolve it. That is the starting point for feeling better. You may wonder whether anything can really help, because everything may seem complicated and deep, but the wonder of your own self is waiting for you to unfold.
0161 850 5488 View 0161 850 5488
Photo of Dr Anna Chisholm, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist
Dr Anna Chisholm
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Manchester M20
I provide support for people wanting to make a change to their lives in order to live well and live healthy. Changing an element of your lifestyle can be extremely challenging, for example managing your weight, stopping smoking or reducing alcohol consumption. Often these factors are tied up with the complexities of our lives, managing stress, living with illness, overcoming obstacles in our lives. I work with people to help them make lasting and meaningful changes to behaviours that are causing them difficulties and find ways to improve overall health and wellbeing.
I provide support for people wanting to make a change to their lives in order to live well and live healthy. Changing an element of your lifestyle can be extremely challenging, for example managing your weight, stopping smoking or reducing alcohol consumption. Often these factors are tied up with the complexities of our lives, managing stress, living with illness, overcoming obstacles in our lives. I work with people to help them make lasting and meaningful changes to behaviours that are causing them difficulties and find ways to improve overall health and wellbeing.
0161 850 4103 View 0161 850 4103
Photo of Joanne Ablett - Dr Joanne Ablett (Flow Clinical Psychology), PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Joanne Ablett (Flow Clinical Psychology)
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester M3  (Online Only)
I work supporting and coaching individuals to improve their overall wellbeing with a mind-body approach using both psychology and somatic methods in an integrated way. If you are struggling with the flow in your life, in any area, whether it be health, work, relationships, past or a bit of everything, please do get in touch for a collaborative and tailored approach to your needs. I am particularly interested in the how trauma can be expressed through the body and skilled in working holistically with the impact of physical symptoms. Lets help you to move forwards with your goals, whatever they may be.
I work supporting and coaching individuals to improve their overall wellbeing with a mind-body approach using both psychology and somatic methods in an integrated way. If you are struggling with the flow in your life, in any area, whether it be health, work, relationships, past or a bit of everything, please do get in touch for a collaborative and tailored approach to your needs. I am particularly interested in the how trauma can be expressed through the body and skilled in working holistically with the impact of physical symptoms. Lets help you to move forwards with your goals, whatever they may be.
01925 948102 View 01925 948102
Photo of Dr Ada Siu, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist
Dr Ada Siu
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester M1
I am an experienced psychologist in providing psychology therapies and behavioural change interventions to promote mental wellbeing and healthy behaviours. I worked in a wide range of psychology contexts including clinical mental health, forensics, health, communities, and universities. My work with the NHS specialises in chronic pain management and other long-term health conditions. Throughout my clinical practice, I specialise in working with people presenting difficulties in mental health and physical health, as well as in major life adjustments/transitions (e.g. bereavement, relationships, settling in a new environment).
I am an experienced psychologist in providing psychology therapies and behavioural change interventions to promote mental wellbeing and healthy behaviours. I worked in a wide range of psychology contexts including clinical mental health, forensics, health, communities, and universities. My work with the NHS specialises in chronic pain management and other long-term health conditions. Throughout my clinical practice, I specialise in working with people presenting difficulties in mental health and physical health, as well as in major life adjustments/transitions (e.g. bereavement, relationships, settling in a new environment).
020 3910 8453 View 020 3910 8453
Photo of Dr Christopher McCormack, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Christopher McCormack
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester M1  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist who offers psychological assessment and treatment for a wide range of difficulties. In my NHS post, I work in an HIV & Sexual Health service and a specialist mental health team that provides input to inpatients and outpatients struggling with physical health problems. I am particularly experienced at seeing people and couples presenting with sexual difficulties, such as painful sex or unreliable erections. I also have a specialist interest in anxiety disorders and the application of cognitive behavioural therapy in its treatment.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who offers psychological assessment and treatment for a wide range of difficulties. In my NHS post, I work in an HIV & Sexual Health service and a specialist mental health team that provides input to inpatients and outpatients struggling with physical health problems. I am particularly experienced at seeing people and couples presenting with sexual difficulties, such as painful sex or unreliable erections. I also have a specialist interest in anxiety disorders and the application of cognitive behavioural therapy in its treatment.
01689 668406 View 01689 668406
Photo of Rebecca Quinlan, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Rebecca Quinlan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester M15
Are you feeling stuck or held back by challenges in your life? I work with clients facing a range of issues, using a blend of Person-Centred Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and attachment-based techniques to create meaningful change. Together, we’ll explore the roots of your challenges, reframe negative patterns, and build healthier connections with yourself and others. My approach combines empathy with practical tools tailored to your needs, helping you feel more confident, connected, and in control. Ready to take the next step? Let’s start your journey.
Are you feeling stuck or held back by challenges in your life? I work with clients facing a range of issues, using a blend of Person-Centred Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and attachment-based techniques to create meaningful change. Together, we’ll explore the roots of your challenges, reframe negative patterns, and build healthier connections with yourself and others. My approach combines empathy with practical tools tailored to your needs, helping you feel more confident, connected, and in control. Ready to take the next step? Let’s start your journey.
07491 802149 View 07491 802149
Photo of Dr Uyen Phan Hong Le, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist
Dr Uyen Phan Hong Le
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Manchester M1  (Online Only)
Are you thinking of building a new habit? Or perhaps you want to feel better but are not sure where to start? Like myself, you might have listed several New Year's resolutions, such as "Less screen time", and "Sleep more", However, work, studies, family responsibilities and other commitments could make lifestyle changes more challenging. There may even be a self-critical voice that makes us feel guilty and anxious when we do not accomplish our goals. If you share similar experiences, "you are not alone". Long-term behaviour change can be difficult and need consistency and self-compassion, rather than willpower.
Are you thinking of building a new habit? Or perhaps you want to feel better but are not sure where to start? Like myself, you might have listed several New Year's resolutions, such as "Less screen time", and "Sleep more", However, work, studies, family responsibilities and other commitments could make lifestyle changes more challenging. There may even be a self-critical voice that makes us feel guilty and anxious when we do not accomplish our goals. If you share similar experiences, "you are not alone". Long-term behaviour change can be difficult and need consistency and self-compassion, rather than willpower.
01786 232161 View 01786 232161
Photo of Megan Bowes, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist
Megan Bowes
Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Manchester M20  (Online Only)
I am a Senior Health Psychologist specialising in Trauma, phobias and Chronic conditions. Together, we can work through any difficulties holding you back from living the life you'd like to lead. If you are struggling, either mentally or physically, please get in touch for a free consultation. I have worked across multiple NHS services including trauma, long-covid, rheumatology and chronic pain.
I am a Senior Health Psychologist specialising in Trauma, phobias and Chronic conditions. Together, we can work through any difficulties holding you back from living the life you'd like to lead. If you are struggling, either mentally or physically, please get in touch for a free consultation. I have worked across multiple NHS services including trauma, long-covid, rheumatology and chronic pain.
01253 835573 View 01253 835573
Photo of Dr Trevor Landry, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Trevor Landry
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Manchester M1
Like so many, I have suffered a great deal of loss, pain and anxiety in my life. This has inspired me to learn how best to support others who may also be struggling and for the last 20 years I have dedicated my life to developing my skills in Clinical Psychology to enhance my capacity to serve and support my clients. I have worked with and learned from so many people over the years, accross many contexts including; homelessness, mental health, addiction and with chronic health difficulties. I am an experienced and qualified Clinical Psychologist available to provide you with compassionate clinical care.
Like so many, I have suffered a great deal of loss, pain and anxiety in my life. This has inspired me to learn how best to support others who may also be struggling and for the last 20 years I have dedicated my life to developing my skills in Clinical Psychology to enhance my capacity to serve and support my clients. I have worked with and learned from so many people over the years, accross many contexts including; homelessness, mental health, addiction and with chronic health difficulties. I am an experienced and qualified Clinical Psychologist available to provide you with compassionate clinical care.
01772 419803 View 01772 419803
Photo of Dr Nisha Sharma, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych., Psychologist
Dr Nisha Sharma
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
Manchester M16  (Online Only)
Hello, are you feeling low, anxious, overwhelmed or just stuck and don’t how to move forward, I can help! Taking the first step to seek help can be tough and you might be finding it difficult to know where to start. I offer a safe, supportive and non judgemental space for you to work through current issues. Together we can explore the areas you want more support in and develop a plan to learn skills and techniques to help you cope with the challenges you are facing. I am a Chartered Health Psychologist with over 12 years experience working in the NHS.
Hello, are you feeling low, anxious, overwhelmed or just stuck and don’t how to move forward, I can help! Taking the first step to seek help can be tough and you might be finding it difficult to know where to start. I offer a safe, supportive and non judgemental space for you to work through current issues. Together we can explore the areas you want more support in and develop a plan to learn skills and techniques to help you cope with the challenges you are facing. I am a Chartered Health Psychologist with over 12 years experience working in the NHS.
020 4538 4876 View 020 4538 4876
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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.