Psychology Support & Counselling for Terminal Illness in Sydney

Navigating the Emotional Impact of Terminal Illness

A terminal illness diagnosis can change everything. It can impact how you perceive your future, your relationships, your identity, and even the sense of safety in the world. For some people, the hardest part is not only the medical reality but the emotional weight that comes with it.

At Logic Lounge, we offer compassionate psychological support for people living with terminal illness, as well as partners, carers, and family members. Your values, your needs, and your pace guide support.

When Life Changes Overnight

Terminal illness can bring a mix of emotions that may shift day to day, or even hour to hour. Many people experience:

• Shock, disbelief, or numbness
• Anxiety about the future or medical procedures
• Grief, sadness, anger, or helplessness
• Guilt about family or responsibilities
• Fear about pain, dependence, or loss of autonomy
• Emotional exhaustion from appointments and decision-making

There is no “right” way to feel. Psychological support can provide a space to make sense of what’s happening and to feel less alone in it.

Many people living with terminal illness are surrounded by messages to “stay strong” or “think positively”. While hope can be meaningful, forced positivity can feel isolating, especially when you are carrying real grief and fear.

Therapy is not about pretending things are okay. It is about helping you feel supported while you navigate the reality of what you are facing, including the parts that feel heavy, unfair, or overwhelming.

Common Challenges We Support

Anxiety and Uncertainty

Terminal illness often brings ongoing uncertainty, including medical decisions, symptom changes, and fear of what comes next.

Support may help with:

• Managing anxious thoughts and spirals
• Coping with uncertainty and loss of control
• Preparing for appointments and results
• Reducing panic symptoms and overwhelm

Grief and Anticipatory Loss

Grief can begin long before a loss occurs. People may grieve:

• Future plans and milestones
• Physical independence
• Roles within the family
• Identity and life direction
• Changes to relationships and intimacy

Therapy can support you to hold grief with compassion, while still making space for moments of meaning and connection.

Depression and Emotional Numbness

Some people experience low mood, hopelessness, or emotional shutdown. Others feel detached, as though life is happening to someone else.

Support may help with:

• emotional processing and expression
• reconnecting with meaning and values
• navigating loss of motivation
• reducing isolation

If symptoms are persistent or intense, therapy can work alongside medical care.

Pain, Fatigue, and Psychological Strain

Living with symptoms can be physically and emotionally draining. Therapy can support:

• pacing and coping strategies
• managing frustration and fear
• nervous system regulation
• gentle approaches to sleep support and relaxation