What is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)?

ME/CFS is a complex neuroimmune illness, affecting the brain as well as immune, gastrointestinal, endocrine and cardiac bodily systems. ME/CFS occurs in 0.4-1% of people and is characterised by severe fatigue leading to restricted daily activities and interrupted relationships.

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What causes ME/CFS?

The cause of ME/CFS is unknown. Research indicates disturbed hormonal and immune functioning, viral infections and low mitochondria function play a role¹‘². ME/CFS symptoms overlap with some medical conditions, which must be ruled-out prior to diagnosis.

What are the symptoms of ME/CFS?

The symptoms of ME/CFS include:

  • Post-exertion exhaustion – rapid physical/cognitive fatigue following minimal cognitive, emotional or physical effort with recovery taking days, weeks or longer.
  • Neurological impairments – difficulty processing information, head/body pain, disrupted sleep patterns, sensory sensitivity, muscle weakness.
  • Immune and gastrointestinal impairments – recurrent or chronic flu-like symptoms or viral infections, nausea and irritable bowel issues.
  • Energy Metabolism/Ion Transportation impairments – cardiovascular or respiratory difficulties and difficulty stabilising body temperature.

What are the physical and mental health treatment options for ME/CFS?

Collaboration between health professionals is important to treat and support persons with ME/CFS. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help manage ME/CFS, leading to improvements in fatigue, work functioning, and quality of life³. Sleep and pain medications can also be helpful in the short-term, and nutrition is important for managing gastrointestinal and metabolism issues².

How Seed Psychology can help you

We can support your recovery and wellbeing with a range of psychological treatment options, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to address unhelpful thought patterns that maintain fatigue and low mood, as well as helping you build acceptance of your illness and improve your coping strategies
  • Graded Exercise Therapy builds awareness of energy levels, avoidance of overexertion for stabilising ME/CFS and staying within limits
  • Sleep hygiene for disrupted sleep
  • Memory aids for brain fog and memory problems
  • Relaxation techniques for coping with stress from chronic illness.

Through connection,
change is possible

Our compassionate team at Seed Psychology is here to help you regain your wellbeing and navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence and clarity. Connect with us to book an appointment with a psychologist in our Brunswick clinic or via telehealth Australia-wide.

Fostering resilience in Brunswick and beyond for over 16 years

Freqeuently asked questions

  • You do not need a referral to see a Psychologist at Seed Psychology. However, if you’d like to claim a Medicare rebate, you will need a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) from your GP. With a MHCP, you may be eligible for rebates on up to 10 sessions per calendar year. These sessions can be used at any psychology clinic of your choice. To access Medicare psychology rebates, book an appointment with your GP and ask for a Mental Health Care Plan. Most referrals begin with 6 sessions, with the option to access 4 more after a review. Referrals can also be provided by a psychiatrist or paediatrician.

  • Yes, we offer in person sessions at our Brunswick East practice and secure online appointments. Our online services make it easy to connect with your Psychologist from anywhere, offering flexibility without compromising on care. Whether you attend in person or online, you’ll receive consistent, high-quality support.

  • To book an appointment, simply use our booking form, or call our client care team on 9388 8113.

  • Our goal is to make mental health care approachable, inclusive, and clear—so you always know what to expect. 

    Individual Therapy Sessions

    • Private clients (no referral): $255 – $285
    • Clients with a MHCP: $230 – $285
    • Medicare rebates: $96.65 – $141.85 per session (depending on the clinician)
  • At Seed Psychology, your safety and wellbeing are our highest priorities. While we are here to support you through regular therapy sessions, we are not a crisis service and may not be available outside of scheduled appointments. If you or someone you care about is in immediate danger, experiencing a mental health crisis, or needs urgent support, it’s important to seek help straight away through the appropriate emergency or crisis services. You can find a list of trusted organisations and services here that can provide immediate support when you need it most.