Berrick Barnes is hoping to be named in the Wallabies World Cup squad next month despite withdrawing from the remainder of the Super Rugby season to deal with head knock-related issues.

The NSW Waratahs' playmaker announced his decision on Tuesday to take a break on medical advice following last weekend's victory over the Highlanders where he was forced from the field in the first half and later suffered a severe headache.

"It's coming on in a bit of a wave at the moment and I'm having a few more (headaches) than I usually have had in the past, so it's probably time to address it now before it becomes too much of a problem," Barnes said.

"I'll liaise with the medical staff but also find some alternative routes to try and look into this sort of thing.

"The medical staff have been great and have assured me it's nothing that's going to affect me long term - which is positive."

Barnes, 25, who ruled out retirement as an option on Tuesday, said he had an encouraging meeting with Wallabies coach Robbie Deans on Monday.

"I've spoken to Robbie ... I've been liaising with him and the Wallabies doctor as well and they've both been very helpful," Barnes said.

"We only had a brief chat, he (Deans) was more worried about me and my well-being and that's the most important thing."

The former Brisbane Broncos NRL player is hoping to make his return at club level for Sydney University in time to push for selection in the Wallabies World Cup squad which is announced on July 10.

"That's my avenue I'll be coming back to play my footy in and hopefully give myself the opportunity to be selected for the World Cup," Barnes said.

Deans said in a statement that everybody involved with the Wallabies supported Barnes' decision.

"He is warmly regarded and respected within the group," Deans said.

"It is important that Berrick takes all of the time that he needs to overcome this issue, and that he is ready both physically and mentally, before he even thinks about playing the game again."

"Obviously it is disappointing that he is having to take a break at this time.

"How long Berrick is out for will determine what happens next, as far as his career is concerned, but no-one will be rushing him."

NSW play the Brumbies in their final Super Rugby home and away match at ANZ Stadium on Saturday night.

Barnes said it wouldn't have been fair on his teammates for him to continue playing for the Waratahs, who are just one point outside the top-six and a big chance of making the finals.

"To be coming off after 30 minutes or even 60 for that matter is not helping anybody," he said.

"It's been extremely frustrating ... There's no doubt that this is not just physiological it's psychological as well and I've got to get over that.

"I'm not hiding from the fact that I've been a bit a frustrated about things and that's probably causing some of the issues I'm having as well."

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