When Physical Health Affects Emotional Wellbeing
Online Therapy to Support the Emotional Impact of Physical Health Conditions
Living with a chronic condition, like chronic pain, heart disease or chronic fatigue - or facing a new diagnosis like cancer can feel overwhelming. Alongside difficult physical symptoms, many people experience anxiety, low mood, a sense of loss, reduced enjoyment in life, or a shift in how they see themselves. Daily life can lose its colour, and the person you once were may feel out of reach.
The emotional impact of physical health challenges is real, and it deserves attention and support. If you’re struggling with how your physical health is affecting your emotional wellbeing, you don’t have to manage this alone. I’m here to help you make sense of what you’re going through and find a way forward that feels right for you.
About me
Hi, I’m Emily, an accredited Psychological Therapist with a genuine passion for supporting people living with physical health conditions.
With over 15 years’ experience working in mental health and over 10 years working within physical health settings, I've had the privilege of working with a wide range of individuals – from professionals, veterans and generally people navigating challenges to their health, to young people facing anxiety within a college setting and new mums seeking support from a mental health charity.
As a Senior Cognitive Behavioural Therapist in a community pain management team, I supported people living with chronic pain, helping them manage the day-to-day challenges of their condition — not only the physical symptoms, but the emotional, psychological, and social challenges that come with them. I’ve worked closely with individuals who felt stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the life they once knew, helping them find ways to move forward with greater understanding and self-compassion.
I also work within a multidisciplinary team led by a Cardiologist, supporting people to reduce their risk of heart disease through stress management, improving quality of sleep and making sustainable lifestyle changes.
Throughout my career, I've delivered workshops and group courses, but my focus has always been – and remains – on working with individuals one-to-one, approaching each person with a plan that fits their unique needs and circumstances. Whether you're facing the daily challenges of chronic pain, managing stress around heart health, or feeling overwhelmed by life's demands, my work focuses on helping you navigate not just the physical symptoms, but the emotional, psychological, and social impact that comes with them.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and walking my dog in the countryside — moments that help keep me grounded and connected to what matters most.
Mind - Body Connection
My work over the past 15 years has deepened my understanding of the mind–body connection — not in the sense that symptoms are “all in the mind,” but in understanding how stress, thoughts, emotions, and physical health genuinely influence one another.
The frustration, anger and upset that often comes with physical health conditions are totally understandable, yet it adds to your level of suffering and makes you feel worse. These emotions can also fuel your body's stress response, creating a cycle that makes everything feel harder. This isn't your fault – it's simply how our nervous systems work. And crucially, it's something we can work with.
I help people understand this connection in a way that feels validating and empowering, not dismissive. Your physical symptoms are real. My work isn't about questioning that or suggesting you can "think yourself better." It's about equipping you with tools to support your nervous system, build emotional resilience, and improve your quality of life – all while working alongside your medical care.
Please take a look at the FAQs section which hopefully answers any more questions you may have.
FAQs
Contact me
If what I’ve shared resonates with you, you’re very welcome to get in touch to explore how therapy could support you.
If you are interested in online therapy with me, please download and complete this form and return via email.
Or if you have any other questions, please check the FAQs or use the contact form.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsafe:
I understand that sometimes things can feel too much. While I can’t offer emergency support, there are people available to help you right now. You can call Samaritans on 116 123 or text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 for free, confidential support. Or call 111 or 999 if you are in immediate danger.