Chronic Illness Counselling in Leederville, WA

Photo of Joanne Lee, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Joanne Lee
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Leederville, WA 6007  (Online Only)
Joanne is an AHPRA registered Clinical Psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). Joanne works with adults of all ages and has extensive experience the areas of anxiety, mood disorders (including depression), adjustment to life transitions, chronic illness, pain management, trauma and grief and loss. Joanne believes in creating a safe emotional space whilst working alongside her clients to help them achieve meaningful change in their everyday life.
Joanne is an AHPRA registered Clinical Psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). Joanne works with adults of all ages and has extensive experience the areas of anxiety, mood disorders (including depression), adjustment to life transitions, chronic illness, pain management, trauma and grief and loss. Joanne believes in creating a safe emotional space whilst working alongside her clients to help them achieve meaningful change in their everyday life.
0420 476 871 View 0420 476 871
Photo of Kim Andrew Greeve - My Counselling and Me, ACA-L1, Counsellor
My Counselling and Me
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Leederville, WA 6007
I am here to work with you and help you obtain the best results possible while working through any current issues or difficulties that you may be experiencing. I work with people who are feeling overwhelmed with circumstances life has thrown at them. I combine my counselling skills, palliative and critical care and advance care planning background and life experiences to help those being challenged by anything from coping with the sudden onset of illness; grief and loss, to sexuality, sexual identity and relationship difficulties. Perth Metro (In-Person) and/or Telehealth/Online Appointments are available.
I am here to work with you and help you obtain the best results possible while working through any current issues or difficulties that you may be experiencing. I work with people who are feeling overwhelmed with circumstances life has thrown at them. I combine my counselling skills, palliative and critical care and advance care planning background and life experiences to help those being challenged by anything from coping with the sudden onset of illness; grief and loss, to sexuality, sexual identity and relationship difficulties. Perth Metro (In-Person) and/or Telehealth/Online Appointments are available.
(08) 6490 9150 View (08) 6490 9150
Photo of Shelley Ranger, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Shelley Ranger
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Leederville, WA 6007
I am a Counselling Psychologist, and have experience working with clients across the lifespan. I work with adolescents, young adults and adults to help them in understanding themselves and others. Deciding to access counselling is often a big decision and it can take a while to find a psychologist that you feel safe, comfortable and at ease with, someone "who really gets you" so to speak. I am able to work with clients who are experiencing mild to acute mental health issues and have experience working in a more acute inpatient setting.
I am a Counselling Psychologist, and have experience working with clients across the lifespan. I work with adolescents, young adults and adults to help them in understanding themselves and others. Deciding to access counselling is often a big decision and it can take a while to find a psychologist that you feel safe, comfortable and at ease with, someone "who really gets you" so to speak. I am able to work with clients who are experiencing mild to acute mental health issues and have experience working in a more acute inpatient setting.
(08) 6388 9857 View (08) 6388 9857
Photo of Miranda Natalie Wiltshire - Miranda Wiltshire Counselling - EMDR Therapy, MC, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miranda Wiltshire Counselling - EMDR Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MC, AMHSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leederville, WA 6007
I am here to support you to heal and achieve your therapeutic goals, whatever they may be, whether its: Healing past trauma or things that have happened in your life that are triggering you and impacting your wellbeing and relationships; Improving your self-worth, love and compassion for yourself; Improving sleep; Decreasing Anxiety; Grieving a Loss; Adjusting to a Diagnosis or significant Health Condition; Achieving your goals in Sport’s Performance or Career; Life as a Carer; or Seeking resilience and resources for you or your children to manage stress throughout life. I have worked in Neurosciences and Mental Health for 22 years.
I am here to support you to heal and achieve your therapeutic goals, whatever they may be, whether its: Healing past trauma or things that have happened in your life that are triggering you and impacting your wellbeing and relationships; Improving your self-worth, love and compassion for yourself; Improving sleep; Decreasing Anxiety; Grieving a Loss; Adjusting to a Diagnosis or significant Health Condition; Achieving your goals in Sport’s Performance or Career; Life as a Carer; or Seeking resilience and resources for you or your children to manage stress throughout life. I have worked in Neurosciences and Mental Health for 22 years.
(08) 6206 8804 View (08) 6206 8804
Photo of Josephine Thien - Interconnect Therapy, MSc, AAFT, Psychotherapist
Interconnect Therapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, AAFT
Verified Verified
Leederville, WA 6007
Families, couples and individuals seek my services because they want help to express and explore difficult thoughts and emotions safely, they want to understand each other’s experiences and views, appreciate each other’s needs, build on strengths and make useful changes in their relationships and their lives. My clients often comment that my sessions have provided them an opportunity to reflect on themselves and how they interact in their relationships which helps them understand their own behaviours better, thus finding ways forward - either as an individual or as a couple and family.
Families, couples and individuals seek my services because they want help to express and explore difficult thoughts and emotions safely, they want to understand each other’s experiences and views, appreciate each other’s needs, build on strengths and make useful changes in their relationships and their lives. My clients often comment that my sessions have provided them an opportunity to reflect on themselves and how they interact in their relationships which helps them understand their own behaviours better, thus finding ways forward - either as an individual or as a couple and family.
(08) 7701 9554 View (08) 7701 9554
Photo of Kylie Mathieson, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kylie Mathieson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Leederville, WA 6007
Kylie is well known for her holistic, down-to-earth and non-judgemental style. She has worked with clients across the developmental spectrum, using evidence-based approaches to support those impacted by anxiety, depression, mood fluctuations, autism, and ADHD. She also enjoys supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. Kylie has particular interests in helping individuals navigate difficult life transitions, adapt following diagnosis/illness, manage professional pressures; improve performance, and embed healthy lifestyle habits (e.g. movement, mindful awareness, sleep). Kylie has further qualifications in fitness and executive coaching.
Kylie is well known for her holistic, down-to-earth and non-judgemental style. She has worked with clients across the developmental spectrum, using evidence-based approaches to support those impacted by anxiety, depression, mood fluctuations, autism, and ADHD. She also enjoys supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. Kylie has particular interests in helping individuals navigate difficult life transitions, adapt following diagnosis/illness, manage professional pressures; improve performance, and embed healthy lifestyle habits (e.g. movement, mindful awareness, sleep). Kylie has further qualifications in fitness and executive coaching.
(08) 6556 9594 View (08) 6556 9594
Photo of Caroline Spiers, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Caroline Spiers
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leederville, WA 6007  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? A good counsellor will allow you space to talk, guide you gently along your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
Are you struggling with your life and feel you might have unresolved issues, trauma, relationship or neurodiversity challenges or managing family dynamics/adoptee/grief and loss, bereavement or cultural issues? LGBTQIA+ needs that aren’t being seen or understood? A good counsellor will allow you space to talk, guide you gently along your journey and provide safety and non judgement to explore what can be achieved. This is the foundation of my practice - always from a trauma informed perspective.
(03) 7003 2855 View (03) 7003 2855

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Julie Sparrow, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Sparrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Subiaco, WA 6008
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be hard and it takes courage to seek help and work for change. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, and provide a safe, confidential space to support you with current challenges. I have significant experience working with people affected by cancer and chronic illness, anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual abuse, loneliness, relationship and family challenges, and grief. I have considerable cross-cultural experience, both in Australia and overseas, and really enjoy working with people from different backgrounds.
Life can be hard and it takes courage to seek help and work for change. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, and provide a safe, confidential space to support you with current challenges. I have significant experience working with people affected by cancer and chronic illness, anxiety, depression, trauma, sexual abuse, loneliness, relationship and family challenges, and grief. I have considerable cross-cultural experience, both in Australia and overseas, and really enjoy working with people from different backgrounds.
(08) 6490 9072 View (08) 6490 9072
Photo of Theresa Potter - Serene Solutions Counselling Services, AMHSW, Psychotherapist
Serene Solutions Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
My battle with chronic illness has given me a unique understanding of the mental health complexities of living with illness.
I'm Theresa, the driving force behind Serene Solutions Counselling Services. I've worn many hats, from social work to theology, psychotherapy, and hypnotherapy. My journey has been winding, but it's led me here, ready to be your guide to positive transformation. With a background in social work, I've been in the trenches, working with families and children, and I have equally nurtured knowledge and community in academic settings. Now, as a psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist, I combine all these experiences to offer you a comprehensive range of services.
My battle with chronic illness has given me a unique understanding of the mental health complexities of living with illness.
I'm Theresa, the driving force behind Serene Solutions Counselling Services. I've worn many hats, from social work to theology, psychotherapy, and hypnotherapy. My journey has been winding, but it's led me here, ready to be your guide to positive transformation. With a background in social work, I've been in the trenches, working with families and children, and I have equally nurtured knowledge and community in academic settings. Now, as a psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist, I combine all these experiences to offer you a comprehensive range of services.
(08) 6361 7051 View (08) 6361 7051
Photo of Bronwyn Bickle, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Bronwyn Bickle
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
With 30+ years lived experience with chronic illness, I understand many of the challenges faced by individuals living with illness and/or pain, including; endless Drs appointments, financial pressures, fatigue, and social expectations.
Hi, I'm Bronwyn and I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM) and chronic illness through online and in-person counselling. I also work extensively with folks from the neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, kink and BDSM communities. ENM covers a range of relationship structures that fall outside of social norms, such as open-relationships and polyamory. Therapeutic topics often include jealousy, boundary setting, trust, attachment and sexual discovery. My work in the ENM field led me to author a book "The Beginner's Guide to Ethical Non-Monogamy". In this space I'm also known as 'The Polyamory Practitioner'; join me on Instagram and Facebook.
With 30+ years lived experience with chronic illness, I understand many of the challenges faced by individuals living with illness and/or pain, including; endless Drs appointments, financial pressures, fatigue, and social expectations.
Hi, I'm Bronwyn and I specialize in ethical non-monogamy (ENM) and chronic illness through online and in-person counselling. I also work extensively with folks from the neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, kink and BDSM communities. ENM covers a range of relationship structures that fall outside of social norms, such as open-relationships and polyamory. Therapeutic topics often include jealousy, boundary setting, trust, attachment and sexual discovery. My work in the ENM field led me to author a book "The Beginner's Guide to Ethical Non-Monogamy". In this space I'm also known as 'The Polyamory Practitioner'; join me on Instagram and Facebook.
(08) 7523 4519 View (08) 7523 4519
Photo of Martina Link - Balance your Life Counselling - Martina Link, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Balance your Life Counselling - Martina Link
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
Life can be overwhelming, especially when facing challenges like chronic illness, loss & grief, interpersonal relationship issues and general emotional distress. You don’t have to navigate these difficulties alone. My approach is rooted in understanding and empathy, helping you find the strength to overcome obstacles and achieve a positive outlook. Together, we will explore solutions that empower you to move forward, fostering personal growth and resilience. With a deep understanding of the complex emotions and struggles you’re experiencing, I am here to support you every step of the way, guiding you toward a fulfilling future.
Life can be overwhelming, especially when facing challenges like chronic illness, loss & grief, interpersonal relationship issues and general emotional distress. You don’t have to navigate these difficulties alone. My approach is rooted in understanding and empathy, helping you find the strength to overcome obstacles and achieve a positive outlook. Together, we will explore solutions that empower you to move forward, fostering personal growth and resilience. With a deep understanding of the complex emotions and struggles you’re experiencing, I am here to support you every step of the way, guiding you toward a fulfilling future.
(02) 8403 1165 View (02) 8403 1165
Photo of Teresa Goddard, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Teresa Goddard
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Osborne Park, WA 6017
As a Clinical Psychologist I have experience working with a range of mental health issues, like depression and anxiety disorders, personality disorders, anger and stress management, difficulties with self-esteem and self-compassion, disordered eating habits, adjustment difficulties, chronic illness, sleep difficulties, trauma and work-related issues. I pride myself on establishing a strong therapeutic alliance with clients of all ages and enjoy working from a person-centred and psychodynamic approach.
As a Clinical Psychologist I have experience working with a range of mental health issues, like depression and anxiety disorders, personality disorders, anger and stress management, difficulties with self-esteem and self-compassion, disordered eating habits, adjustment difficulties, chronic illness, sleep difficulties, trauma and work-related issues. I pride myself on establishing a strong therapeutic alliance with clients of all ages and enjoy working from a person-centred and psychodynamic approach.
(08) 6219 3860 View (08) 6219 3860
Photo of Sophie Burren - Sophie Burren Psychology, MACPA Assoc, Psychologist
Sophie Burren Psychology
Psychologist, MACPA Assoc
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
Having worked in the public health sector/trauma services for a number of years, she has experience working with complex and sexual trauma, FDV, assaults, medical trauma, accident & emergency, chronic illness, anxiety disorders, depression, burnout & compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma, panic disorders, adjustment difficulties, MVA's, grief & loss, and more.
Sophie is a Clinical Psychologist who welcomes referrals from those experiencing adjustment difficulties in their life; and health presentations across the lifespan; inclusive of distress post diagnosis or injury, end-of-life care, trauma responses, grief & loss, anxiety/depression, and chronic illness etc; she is also passionate about the mental health of other healthcare providers; specifically around the challenges faced by early career and acute care medical, nursing, and allied health professionals.
Having worked in the public health sector/trauma services for a number of years, she has experience working with complex and sexual trauma, FDV, assaults, medical trauma, accident & emergency, chronic illness, anxiety disorders, depression, burnout & compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma, panic disorders, adjustment difficulties, MVA's, grief & loss, and more.
Sophie is a Clinical Psychologist who welcomes referrals from those experiencing adjustment difficulties in their life; and health presentations across the lifespan; inclusive of distress post diagnosis or injury, end-of-life care, trauma responses, grief & loss, anxiety/depression, and chronic illness etc; she is also passionate about the mental health of other healthcare providers; specifically around the challenges faced by early career and acute care medical, nursing, and allied health professionals.
(08) 7110 0870 View (08) 7110 0870
Photo of Elena Manning, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Elena Manning
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
Elena has significant experience helping people recover from traumas, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness and life transitions such as relationship breakdowns, retirement and job loss.
Elena is a registered Psychologist with many years’ experience assisting people manage life stressors and challenges. Elena’s experience stems from years working in various setting to support people struggling with mental health. She utilizes a range of approaches, tailored to meet the individual’s needs, and recognizes that everyone has strengths and capabilities that that can be built on.
Elena has significant experience helping people recover from traumas, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness and life transitions such as relationship breakdowns, retirement and job loss.
Elena is a registered Psychologist with many years’ experience assisting people manage life stressors and challenges. Elena’s experience stems from years working in various setting to support people struggling with mental health. She utilizes a range of approaches, tailored to meet the individual’s needs, and recognizes that everyone has strengths and capabilities that that can be built on.
(03) 9068 5778 View (03) 9068 5778
Photo of Rae Sabine - Creating Wellbeing Melbourne, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Creating Wellbeing Melbourne
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
***PLEASE CONTACT ME VIA EMAIL*** Hi, I'm Rae (they/them) and I'm a trans non-binary and multiple neurodivergent registered supervisor (I avoids using the term ‘clinical’ to describe the supervision work I do, as I prefer to use non-clinical language in my approaches), arts therapist, and psychotherapist with a lived experience of chronic illness. I have white Anglophone privilege and settler privilege. I experience marginalisation due to living in cisgenderist, binary, neurotypical-centred society. I am very passionate about disability rights, the LGBTQIA+ community and mental health. I am vegan and love animals.
***PLEASE CONTACT ME VIA EMAIL*** Hi, I'm Rae (they/them) and I'm a trans non-binary and multiple neurodivergent registered supervisor (I avoids using the term ‘clinical’ to describe the supervision work I do, as I prefer to use non-clinical language in my approaches), arts therapist, and psychotherapist with a lived experience of chronic illness. I have white Anglophone privilege and settler privilege. I experience marginalisation due to living in cisgenderist, binary, neurotypical-centred society. I am very passionate about disability rights, the LGBTQIA+ community and mental health. I am vegan and love animals.
(03) 7302 2943 View (03) 7302 2943
Photo of Emily Radford, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Emily Radford
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
I am inclusive of: kink, polyamory, nonmonogamy, neurodivergent humans, diverse sexualities and genders, humans from diverse racial and ethnical backgrounds, chronic illness, trauma survivors, sex workers, and disability.
I have current availability for Autism and/or ADHD assessments! I am a queer, neurodivergent, and non-binary Psychologist, and I work with individuals who are 18 years of age or older. My priority is to cultivate a trauma-informed, inclusive, and accessible environment. I work with clients with a broad array of presentations, including ADHD, Autism, gender dysphoria, chronic illness/pain/fatigue, interpersonal conflict, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, burnout, PDA, and more.
I am inclusive of: kink, polyamory, nonmonogamy, neurodivergent humans, diverse sexualities and genders, humans from diverse racial and ethnical backgrounds, chronic illness, trauma survivors, sex workers, and disability.
I have current availability for Autism and/or ADHD assessments! I am a queer, neurodivergent, and non-binary Psychologist, and I work with individuals who are 18 years of age or older. My priority is to cultivate a trauma-informed, inclusive, and accessible environment. I work with clients with a broad array of presentations, including ADHD, Autism, gender dysphoria, chronic illness/pain/fatigue, interpersonal conflict, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, burnout, PDA, and more.
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Photo of Gabriella Macri, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Gabriella Macri
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
West Perth, WA 6005
I am an empathetic and supportive Psychologist with clinical and community experience working with clients across the lifespan. I enjoy working with clients from all backgrounds, as I take pleasure in meeting and getting to know different people and their stories. I support people struggling with anxiety, panic, emotional regulation, depression, grief, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, chronic illness and self-development.
I am an empathetic and supportive Psychologist with clinical and community experience working with clients across the lifespan. I enjoy working with clients from all backgrounds, as I take pleasure in meeting and getting to know different people and their stories. I support people struggling with anxiety, panic, emotional regulation, depression, grief, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, chronic illness and self-development.
(08) 6493 7980 View (08) 6493 7980
Photo of Kate Deakin, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Kate Deakin
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
I'm a general psychotherapist, counsellor, somatic psychotherapist, meditation & embodiment teacher. I offer individual therapy & online grounding & embodiment meditation classes. I work with: -Anxiety, depression, difficult emotions -Self-esteem -Chronic pain -Insomnia -Relationship issues -Existential issues: fear of death, illness, isolation, uncertainty, change, loss -Lack of meaning (& fulfilment) -Life goals -'Psychosomatic' issues e.g. chronic fatigue, gastro issues -Grief -Sensitivity -Building resilience -Making decisions -Your relationship with time -'OCD' -'panic attacks' -General life challenges -Breathing related issues
I'm a general psychotherapist, counsellor, somatic psychotherapist, meditation & embodiment teacher. I offer individual therapy & online grounding & embodiment meditation classes. I work with: -Anxiety, depression, difficult emotions -Self-esteem -Chronic pain -Insomnia -Relationship issues -Existential issues: fear of death, illness, isolation, uncertainty, change, loss -Lack of meaning (& fulfilment) -Life goals -'Psychosomatic' issues e.g. chronic fatigue, gastro issues -Grief -Sensitivity -Building resilience -Making decisions -Your relationship with time -'OCD' -'panic attacks' -General life challenges -Breathing related issues
(02) 9100 0463 View (02) 9100 0463
Photo of Alexandra Mannarino, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Alexandra Mannarino
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
I work with individuals struggling with a range of issues (see below), whether that comes from a desire to understand more about changes to your mental health or general wellbeing, or accessing therapy to assist with a specific diagnosis. I believe our connection to nature is an important component of health that is sometimes overlooked, and make efforts to include this in therapy. It takes courage to reach out for help. Having the space to express yourself without judgement, and having access to ideas or tools can make a big difference. To read more about my experience or areas of interest, visit: wildtherapie.au
I work with individuals struggling with a range of issues (see below), whether that comes from a desire to understand more about changes to your mental health or general wellbeing, or accessing therapy to assist with a specific diagnosis. I believe our connection to nature is an important component of health that is sometimes overlooked, and make efforts to include this in therapy. It takes courage to reach out for help. Having the space to express yourself without judgement, and having access to ideas or tools can make a big difference. To read more about my experience or areas of interest, visit: wildtherapie.au
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Photo of Zorica Zoe Gruneska - Compassionate Journey (Zoe Gruneska), MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Compassionate Journey (Zoe Gruneska)
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
I understand that one needs significant courage to take the first step towards therapy, and therefore I aim to provide a safe environment where you will feel comfortable to openly discuss any issues in a non-judgmental, warm, empathic, and supportive manner. We will explore your current difficulties and invite you to consider what you would like to be different. You will set the direction for our work and I will walk alongside you, as we identify and work on the strategies and actions that support you the best to build the life you want.
I understand that one needs significant courage to take the first step towards therapy, and therefore I aim to provide a safe environment where you will feel comfortable to openly discuss any issues in a non-judgmental, warm, empathic, and supportive manner. We will explore your current difficulties and invite you to consider what you would like to be different. You will set the direction for our work and I will walk alongside you, as we identify and work on the strategies and actions that support you the best to build the life you want.
(03) 7302 8856 View (03) 7302 8856

See more therapy options for Leederville

Chronic Illness Counsellors

How does therapy for chronic illness work?

Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.

Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?

Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?

No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.

How long does therapy for chronic illness take?

There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.