After years of suffering with endometriosis herself, a counsellor and psychotherapist has launched a service dedicated to providing emotional support for people living with the disease and other chronic pain conditions.
Helen Eyley-Aboda, owner of BEP Therapy, has developed the new counselling for chronic pain and endometriosis service to address the often-overlooked psychological impact of long-term health conditions.
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows elsewhere in the body. It affects an estimated one in 10 women or people assigned female at birth. According to new research by Endometriosis UK, it takes an average of 10 years to diagnose. Alongside chronic pain, fatigue and physical symptoms, the condition can also have a significant impact on mental health, relationships, and day-to-day life.
“I know first-hand the effect of delayed and misdiagnosis on your mental health,” said Helen, who experienced a 28-year delay in being diagnosed with endometriosis herself. “It can be exhausting to have to fight for healthcare professionals to take your symptoms seriously. You can end up feeling dismissed and invalidated, which in turn can result in anger, anxiety and depression.”
“Then once you receive a diagnosis, the healthcare system focuses on your bodily symptoms. It doesn’t provide support for the psychological distress caused by delayed diagnosis or the long-term impact of managing a chronic pain condition.”
The new counselling service from BEP Therapy provides a safe, confidential space for individuals to explore the emotional effects of living with chronic illness, including anxiety, grief, identity changes, and the impact on family, relationships, social life and work.
Helen added: “People living with endometriosis and other chronic conditions often go through years of pain, uncertainty, and not feeling heard. The emotional impact can be just as significant as the physical symptoms yet is often overlooked.
“This service is about providing a space where people can talk openly about what they’re going through, physically and emotionally. It gives them a chance to explore how it has impacted their life and relationships with someone who recognises the complexity of living with a long-term condition.”
Sessions are available in person in Tunbridge Wells and online, making the service accessible to clients across the UK. A free introductory call is offered to help individuals explore whether counselling feels right for them.
The service is designed for adults experiencing endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, or other long-term health conditions, and aims to complement medical treatment by supporting emotional wellbeing.
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