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Request a callback → When even small tasks take everything you have
Specialist psychological support for people living with CFS/ME, addressing the emotional and cognitive impact alongside the physical.
Understanding chronic fatigue syndrome
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) is a complex, long-term neurological condition that causes persistent, disabling fatigue alongside a range of other symptoms. It is not caused by low motivation or a negative mindset. It is a genuine physiological condition that currently has no single known cause and no definitive cure.
One of its most distinctive features is post-exertional malaise: the worsening of symptoms following physical, mental, or emotional exertion. This makes CFS/ME unlike ordinary tiredness, where rest brings recovery. Overdoing it can set progress back significantly, which is why pacing and energy management are central to living well with the condition.
Psychological support for CFS/ME is not about addressing a psychological cause. It is about helping people manage the very real challenges of life with a chronic, fluctuating condition: adjusting expectations, conserving energy, maintaining quality of life, and finding meaning within the constraints the illness creates.
Common signs
Common signs
Therapies that can help
Different people respond to different approaches. Your therapist agrees a personalised plan with you, which may draw on:
The Pathway Team matches you to a therapist experienced in supporting people with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME), at your chosen location.
A simple first move
When to reach out
If fatigue and related symptoms are significantly affecting your daily life, speaking to your GP is the right first step. A formal CFS/ME diagnosis requires ruling out other conditions, but you do not need to wait for a label before seeking psychological support.
If you already have a diagnosis and are struggling with the emotional or practical impact of living with CFS/ME, the Pathway Team at Select Psychology can help you find appropriate support. A free Pathway call is the place to start.
Where we offer this
1 Tynemouth Road, NE30 4AY
Psychologists and counsellors in Tynemouth. CBT, EMDR, child psychology and ten other therapies for adults, couples and families across North Tyneside.
Visit clinic
The Grainger Suite, Dobson House, Regent Centre, NE3 3PF
Accredited psychologists and counsellors in Newcastle upon Tyne. CBT, EMDR, DBT and talking therapy for adults, couples and children, at our Gosforth clinic.
Visit clinicQuestions before you start
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex, long-term neurological condition that affects the nervous and immune systems. It causes persistent, disabling fatigue that is not improved by rest, alongside pain, cognitive difficulties, and post-exertional malaise. CFS/ME is a genuine medical condition and not simply a matter of tiredness or low motivation.
Post-exertional malaise (PEM) is the worsening of symptoms that follows physical, mental, or emotional exertion, sometimes by hours or even days. It is one of the hallmark features of CFS/ME and one of the reasons why energy management and pacing are central to treatment. Learning to understand your limits and stay within them is a key part of managing the condition.
Psychological support does not treat the physical basis of CFS/ME, but it can help significantly with the emotional and cognitive impact of living with a chronic condition. Health Psychology and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are well suited to CFS/ME, focusing on pacing, energy management, values-based activity, and adjusting to life with ongoing symptoms.
Many people with CFS/ME do improve over time, though recovery is gradual and the path is rarely linear. The prognosis varies considerably from person to person. With appropriate support, most people find ways to manage their symptoms more effectively and gradually expand what they are able to do within their energy limits.
In the meantime
From the blog
Thinking of asking a clinic for a diagnosis? Some psychologists can give one, but you don't need one to start therapy. We explain how a diagnosis differs from a formulation, what the NHS does with a private diagnosis, and who to see for medication.
Read articleCognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and other mental health conditions. This guide explains what CBT is used for, how it works, and whether it could be the right approach for you.
Read articleThe best way to help someone with OCD is to support them without feeding their compulsions, avoid excessive reassurance, and encourage evidence-based treatment such as CBT with ERP. By understanding what genuinely helps and what to avoid, you can support your loved one while also protecting your own wellbeing.
Read articleLearn how to resolve family conflict, improve communication, and when to seek professional support. Practical guidance from Select Psychology.
Read articleGet in touch
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