Chronic Illness Therapists in Kelowna, BC

Photo of Avril Paice, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Avril Paice
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1X
Waitlist for new clients
My clients want a safe place where they will be deeply heard, understood, and validated. Many of my clients had childhoods that were lacking in nurturing. I support adults who are dealing with issues such as self-care and worthiness struggles, unresolved emotional wounds, body acceptance and battles with diet culture, chronic illness/pain, disability, anxiety, depression, relationship/family conflict, and grief/loss. Come enjoy a complimentary beverage, unload what weighs on your heart, and leave feeling supported, lighter, and more hopeful.
My clients want a safe place where they will be deeply heard, understood, and validated. Many of my clients had childhoods that were lacking in nurturing. I support adults who are dealing with issues such as self-care and worthiness struggles, unresolved emotional wounds, body acceptance and battles with diet culture, chronic illness/pain, disability, anxiety, depression, relationship/family conflict, and grief/loss. Come enjoy a complimentary beverage, unload what weighs on your heart, and leave feeling supported, lighter, and more hopeful.
(604) 210-3860 View (604) 210-3860
Photo of Tanis Burnett - Injury And Adoption Specialist, MC, CVRP, Counsellor
Tanis Burnett - Injury And Adoption Specialist
Counsellor, MC, CVRP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Have you been struggling to adjust to a "new normal" after having an accident? Or, maybe you've tried talking to family and friends about your injury or illness, but they don't seem to understand you? Whether you've been injured in an accident or on the ski hill, or if you've recently been diagnosed with a medical condition that impacts your daily life, working with a therapist with experience with injury rehabilitation and chronic illness could help you regain a sense of purpose and meaning in life.
Have you been struggling to adjust to a "new normal" after having an accident? Or, maybe you've tried talking to family and friends about your injury or illness, but they don't seem to understand you? Whether you've been injured in an accident or on the ski hill, or if you've recently been diagnosed with a medical condition that impacts your daily life, working with a therapist with experience with injury rehabilitation and chronic illness could help you regain a sense of purpose and meaning in life.
(250) 899-2400 View (250) 899-2400
Photo of Chantale Elliott, RTC, CCATP, Counsellor
Chantale Elliott
Counsellor, RTC, CCATP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
My goal is to help people journey towards a better quality of life despite chronic illness, fatigue, pain, or disability.
Do you struggle with anxiety, chronic illness, pain, or grief that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, and ability to find balance? Do you feel exhausted by the challenges of managing mental health or overwhelmed by the pressure to meet other's standards? Do you hope for a better, more integrated approach to your well-being? Now more than ever, individuals seeking a holistic approach to health and mental wellness are feeling uncertain about overcoming personal challenges. I believe that living better shouldn't be so hard, change is possible, and there's hope and answers.
My goal is to help people journey towards a better quality of life despite chronic illness, fatigue, pain, or disability.
Do you struggle with anxiety, chronic illness, pain, or grief that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, and ability to find balance? Do you feel exhausted by the challenges of managing mental health or overwhelmed by the pressure to meet other's standards? Do you hope for a better, more integrated approach to your well-being? Now more than ever, individuals seeking a holistic approach to health and mental wellness are feeling uncertain about overcoming personal challenges. I believe that living better shouldn't be so hard, change is possible, and there's hope and answers.
(604) 706-1907 View (604) 706-1907
Photo of Judith Adams - Judith Adams Counselling, RPC, RTC, Counsellor
Judith Adams Counselling
Counsellor, RPC, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y  (Online Only)
I specialize in the psychological and emotional aspects of : Anxiety, Caring for People with Dementia, Chronic Illness, Living with an Ostomy, Parenting Children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Pregnancy, Birthing and Motherhood, and Relationship Crisis and Marital Breakdown.
I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC) with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada and a Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC) with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association. I counsel individuals who struggle with anxiety caused by health, relationships, parenting or caregiving issues. My approach is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My professional experience includes teaching and caregiving roles. I have cared for elders with dementia and provided customized sessions to improve their cognition. As a Homestay provider, I hosted 49 international students. I have raised four children.
I specialize in the psychological and emotional aspects of : Anxiety, Caring for People with Dementia, Chronic Illness, Living with an Ostomy, Parenting Children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Pregnancy, Birthing and Motherhood, and Relationship Crisis and Marital Breakdown.
I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC) with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada and a Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC) with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association. I counsel individuals who struggle with anxiety caused by health, relationships, parenting or caregiving issues. My approach is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My professional experience includes teaching and caregiving roles. I have cared for elders with dementia and provided customized sessions to improve their cognition. As a Homestay provider, I hosted 49 international students. I have raised four children.
(888) 312-8777 View (888) 312-8777
Photo of Alena Naidzenka, PsyM, RCC, CCC, Licensed Professional Counsellor
Alena Naidzenka
Licensed Professional Counsellor, PsyM, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Z  (Online Only)
I consider both top-down (brain retraining) and bottom-up (somatic) evidence-based modalities to help you overcome the effects of stress, trauma, and chronic illness symptoms and come back into balance and health.
My approach to psychotherapy is balanced and holistic, which gets to the root of my clients' chronic stress, depression, overeating, fatigue, anxiety, and nervous system imbalances and aims for their overall wellness. I have a background in wellness and disability management and over a decade of experience working in mental health. In my work, I use trauma-informed, neuroscience-based interventions that go beyond talk therapy. I will teach you to gain a deeper understanding of your nervous system processes, help regulate your emotions and physical reactions, and retrain your brain so it changes its unhelpful responses to stress.
I consider both top-down (brain retraining) and bottom-up (somatic) evidence-based modalities to help you overcome the effects of stress, trauma, and chronic illness symptoms and come back into balance and health.
My approach to psychotherapy is balanced and holistic, which gets to the root of my clients' chronic stress, depression, overeating, fatigue, anxiety, and nervous system imbalances and aims for their overall wellness. I have a background in wellness and disability management and over a decade of experience working in mental health. In my work, I use trauma-informed, neuroscience-based interventions that go beyond talk therapy. I will teach you to gain a deeper understanding of your nervous system processes, help regulate your emotions and physical reactions, and retrain your brain so it changes its unhelpful responses to stress.
(249) 504-2481 View (249) 504-2481
Photo of Jessica Hughes, RPC, CEPC, Counsellor
Jessica Hughes
Counsellor, RPC, CEPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1P
I specialize in life transitions, personal/spiritual growth, chronic illness, end of life, grief & loss and holistic health and wellness lifestyle practices.
Are you tired of being stuck? Tired of beating yourself up? Board with the same old strategies that don't work? Are you ready for change? Many people experience times in their lives when they begin to feel overwhelmed and have difficulty coping. Feelings of shame, fear, loneliness, anger and hurt can have us feeling trapped and like we will never be okay. Counselling can often help people to transition to a place of balance, where they are much better able to cope, and not feel as overwhelmed. Not only will they be better able to cope, they can develop strategies that can make their lives more manageable and balanced in the future.
I specialize in life transitions, personal/spiritual growth, chronic illness, end of life, grief & loss and holistic health and wellness lifestyle practices.
Are you tired of being stuck? Tired of beating yourself up? Board with the same old strategies that don't work? Are you ready for change? Many people experience times in their lives when they begin to feel overwhelmed and have difficulty coping. Feelings of shame, fear, loneliness, anger and hurt can have us feeling trapped and like we will never be okay. Counselling can often help people to transition to a place of balance, where they are much better able to cope, and not feel as overwhelmed. Not only will they be better able to cope, they can develop strategies that can make their lives more manageable and balanced in the future.
(289) 216-5729 View (289) 216-5729
Photo of Kristin Martina Kowalko - Noke' Counselling , MSW, RSW, RCC, Registered Social Worker
Noke' Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y  (Online Only)
Hi I'm Kristin! I have over ten years experience in walking alongside individuals who are going through difficulties, whether mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually. I have had the privilege of supporting individuals on their path with depression, anxiety, (inter-generational) trauma, grief, chronic illness/pain, life transitions, and identity concerns. My perspective is that you are the expert of your own life and together we can create a safe space to explore your inner knowing and path forward.
Hi I'm Kristin! I have over ten years experience in walking alongside individuals who are going through difficulties, whether mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually. I have had the privilege of supporting individuals on their path with depression, anxiety, (inter-generational) trauma, grief, chronic illness/pain, life transitions, and identity concerns. My perspective is that you are the expert of your own life and together we can create a safe space to explore your inner knowing and path forward.
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Photo of Ashley Phillips, MEd, CCC, Counsellor
Ashley Phillips
Counsellor, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Waitlist for new clients
Life is filled with ups and downs. I can help you manage stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders / disordered eating including binge eating, emotional / overeating, and unhealthy relationships with food, body image issues, and coping with chronic Illness.
Life is filled with ups and downs. I can help you manage stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders / disordered eating including binge eating, emotional / overeating, and unhealthy relationships with food, body image issues, and coping with chronic Illness.
(855) 510-2175 View (855) 510-2175
Photo of Candice Seligman - Loving Awareness Therapy & Healing Arts, MACP, DVATI, CCC, Counsellor
Loving Awareness Therapy & Healing Arts
Counsellor, MACP, DVATI, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1P  (Online Only)
I am passionate about supporting folks with: childhood trauma & cptsd, self-criticism & self-worth, relationship and family concerns, notably adult children of emotionally immature or narcissistic parents, people-pleasing, anxiety, depression, spirituality, inner child healing, perfectionism, body-based concerns ( chronic illness, pain, disease), and more.
Are you feeling ready for deeper healing? I am a somatic and soul-based therapist & healer passionate about reconnecting you to the wisdom of your body, heart, and soul. I approach healing from a compassionate, embodied, empowering & holistic perspective. You are not seen as being broken, flawed, or needing to be fixed. We will explore your symptoms together (such as anxiety, people-pleasing, over-working, low self-esteem..) and learn how to listen to their wisdom. We will use modalities focused on healing from the root cause to create long-lasting transformation.
I am passionate about supporting folks with: childhood trauma & cptsd, self-criticism & self-worth, relationship and family concerns, notably adult children of emotionally immature or narcissistic parents, people-pleasing, anxiety, depression, spirituality, inner child healing, perfectionism, body-based concerns ( chronic illness, pain, disease), and more.
Are you feeling ready for deeper healing? I am a somatic and soul-based therapist & healer passionate about reconnecting you to the wisdom of your body, heart, and soul. I approach healing from a compassionate, embodied, empowering & holistic perspective. You are not seen as being broken, flawed, or needing to be fixed. We will explore your symptoms together (such as anxiety, people-pleasing, over-working, low self-esteem..) and learn how to listen to their wisdom. We will use modalities focused on healing from the root cause to create long-lasting transformation.
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Photo of Lisa N Calder - Lisa Calder Counselling - Clinical Services, MSW, RSW, RCC, BCRPT, EXAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Calder Counselling - Clinical Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, RCC, BCRPT, EXAT
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1P
My areas of specialty are: Promoting Healing from Trauma & Compassion Fatigue; Making Meaning from Grief & Loss; Coping Well with Chronic Illness & Disability; Overcoming Anxiety & Depression; Enhancing Attachment/Communication in Relationships.
My clients are children and adults, individuals, couples, and families interested in obtaining support for healing and growth from trauma, grief, chronic illness, anxiety and depression. I employ clinical and expressive art therapy and traditional methods. I provide support to professional caregivers, front-line workers, and counsellors, via individual counselling, expressive therapy sessions, and training . I also have experience providing clinical supervision for counsellors and social work students. I focus on discovering HOPE and strengths while helping you meet your challenges, whether they are personal, family or work related.
My areas of specialty are: Promoting Healing from Trauma & Compassion Fatigue; Making Meaning from Grief & Loss; Coping Well with Chronic Illness & Disability; Overcoming Anxiety & Depression; Enhancing Attachment/Communication in Relationships.
My clients are children and adults, individuals, couples, and families interested in obtaining support for healing and growth from trauma, grief, chronic illness, anxiety and depression. I employ clinical and expressive art therapy and traditional methods. I provide support to professional caregivers, front-line workers, and counsellors, via individual counselling, expressive therapy sessions, and training . I also have experience providing clinical supervision for counsellors and social work students. I focus on discovering HOPE and strengths while helping you meet your challenges, whether they are personal, family or work related.
(587) 507-4486 View (587) 507-4486
Photo of Carla Friesen - Carla Friesen Counselling, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Carla Friesen Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Are you struggling with anxiety? Trying to manage chronic pain/illness and not really participating in life? Overwhelmed with parenting? Is your child struggling and needing support? My name is Carla and I am here to listen, understand, and partner with you to create change. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), as well as a former teacher and school counsellor.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Trying to manage chronic pain/illness and not really participating in life? Overwhelmed with parenting? Is your child struggling and needing support? My name is Carla and I am here to listen, understand, and partner with you to create change. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), as well as a former teacher and school counsellor.
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Photo of Kathleen Williscroft, BA, RTC, Counsellor
Kathleen Williscroft
Counsellor, BA, RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Whether you are looking to improve your relationships, focusing on personal growth, or healing from past wounds, you are in the right place. I believe that we have all that we need to heal ourselves within us, but sometimes we need the help of a compassionate person, such as a counsellor, in reconnecting to that part of ourselves. If you've been feeling isolated with your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, know that you are not alone even though it may seem that way at times.
Whether you are looking to improve your relationships, focusing on personal growth, or healing from past wounds, you are in the right place. I believe that we have all that we need to heal ourselves within us, but sometimes we need the help of a compassionate person, such as a counsellor, in reconnecting to that part of ourselves. If you've been feeling isolated with your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, know that you are not alone even though it may seem that way at times.
(506) 700-2627 View (506) 700-2627
Photo of Christine Selder, MEd, RCC, SEP, Counsellor
Christine Selder
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Z  (Online Only)
I work with individuals across the lifespan, from adolescents to mature adults, who are managing issues such as trauma, illness (including chronic and complex illness), relationships, anxiety, sensory sensitivities, and the full range of nervous system expressions of dysregulation. I guide people on the journey of discovering the wisdom of their bodies and its impetus to find regulation and wellness. We use physiological cues and clues to guide the session along with dialogue, imagery and at times movement. We take pieces in a paced and tolerable way to build capacity and safety within the context of change.
I work with individuals across the lifespan, from adolescents to mature adults, who are managing issues such as trauma, illness (including chronic and complex illness), relationships, anxiety, sensory sensitivities, and the full range of nervous system expressions of dysregulation. I guide people on the journey of discovering the wisdom of their bodies and its impetus to find regulation and wellness. We use physiological cues and clues to guide the session along with dialogue, imagery and at times movement. We take pieces in a paced and tolerable way to build capacity and safety within the context of change.
(587) 417-6477 View (587) 417-6477
Photo of Jessica Begg, BSc, MC, RD, RCC, Counsellor
Jessica Begg
Counsellor, BSc, MC, RD, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1P  (Online Only)
I am both a Clinical Counsellor and Dietitian. I work with people to help create peace with food and their body. My clients are tired of struggling with food and their body. Perhaps they have struggled with disordered eating, or are currently struggling. They know diets and rigid ways of eating don’t “work” and they see the trauma of this way of eating has on their mind and body. So they seek a way of eating and being in their body that is less confusing and carries less judgement. That they no longer want to feel out of control with their eating. And they want to start caring for their body.
I am both a Clinical Counsellor and Dietitian. I work with people to help create peace with food and their body. My clients are tired of struggling with food and their body. Perhaps they have struggled with disordered eating, or are currently struggling. They know diets and rigid ways of eating don’t “work” and they see the trauma of this way of eating has on their mind and body. So they seek a way of eating and being in their body that is less confusing and carries less judgement. That they no longer want to feel out of control with their eating. And they want to start caring for their body.
(548) 900-0171 View (548) 900-0171
Photo of Leah Lynne, RPCc
Leah Lynne
RPCc
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y  (Online Only)
Counsellor and Coach who is committed to working with you to compassionately guide you towards what’s meaningful.
Counsellor and Coach who is committed to working with you to compassionately guide you towards what’s meaningful.
(506) 496-2108 View (506) 496-2108
Photo of Shelley Geislinger, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Shelley Geislinger
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
It can be helpful to talk with someone in a confidential, supportive environment at times in our life. Counselling offers a safe place for you to reflect, obtain clarity, and improve how you feel in your day to day life. In counselling sessions, I interact collaboratively with you to support you to recognize your strengths, gain insight and expand your skills to bring about changes, so that you can experience increased self awareness and improved quality of life. I offer a non-judgmental, compassionate, and inclusive environment for you to reflect on your concerns.
It can be helpful to talk with someone in a confidential, supportive environment at times in our life. Counselling offers a safe place for you to reflect, obtain clarity, and improve how you feel in your day to day life. In counselling sessions, I interact collaboratively with you to support you to recognize your strengths, gain insight and expand your skills to bring about changes, so that you can experience increased self awareness and improved quality of life. I offer a non-judgmental, compassionate, and inclusive environment for you to reflect on your concerns.
(249) 544-0247 View (249) 544-0247
Photo of Anne Chronnell, BFA, RTC, RPC, HBCE, Counsellor
Anne Chronnell
Counsellor, BFA, RTC, RPC, HBCE
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I specialize in working with women going through Life's varying transitions - in particular with our "role" changes such as pregnancy, motherhood, menopause and also identity/self worth and esteem struggles. Life can stir up anxiety, depression, disempowerment, and loss of Self. I work to help ground you back to your inner strength, to Who You Are, and help you find ways to navigate the rough waters.
I specialize in working with women going through Life's varying transitions - in particular with our "role" changes such as pregnancy, motherhood, menopause and also identity/self worth and esteem struggles. Life can stir up anxiety, depression, disempowerment, and loss of Self. I work to help ground you back to your inner strength, to Who You Are, and help you find ways to navigate the rough waters.
(249) 505-0577 View (249) 505-0577
Photo of Julie Morgan - Making Strides Counselling and Wellness , RSW, Registered Social Worker
Making Strides Counselling and Wellness
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1X
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, insecure, angry, or overwhelmed? Are you struggling to feel balanced, to manage your stress and build healthier relationships? Are you lost or stuck on the road to what you know deep down is your true self and best life? Imagine how far you could go and how easy it would be if you turned your steps into strides. As a registered social worker with over 15 years of counselling experience, it begins by you pushing aside the stigmas of mental health, reaching out for support, and confronting your fears. I am here to guide you along that path that most of us find confusing and overwhelming.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, insecure, angry, or overwhelmed? Are you struggling to feel balanced, to manage your stress and build healthier relationships? Are you lost or stuck on the road to what you know deep down is your true self and best life? Imagine how far you could go and how easy it would be if you turned your steps into strides. As a registered social worker with over 15 years of counselling experience, it begins by you pushing aside the stigmas of mental health, reaching out for support, and confronting your fears. I am here to guide you along that path that most of us find confusing and overwhelming.
(226) 455-6763 View (226) 455-6763
Photo of Jocelyn Watson, MSW, RSW, RCC, Registered Social Worker
Jocelyn Watson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Are you seeking support for religious trauma, complex trauma, your relationship with food and body, or scrupulosity OCD? Emotional, physical and spiritual pain can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves, others, and the world around us. These disconnections can make it difficult to manage in our daily lives - let alone find support. However, I believe that therapy is one of the ways that we can begin the process of re-connecting with our selves, bodies, and communities. In our work together, I will seek to provide an openness that meets you where you’re at with empathy and non-judgement.
Are you seeking support for religious trauma, complex trauma, your relationship with food and body, or scrupulosity OCD? Emotional, physical and spiritual pain can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves, others, and the world around us. These disconnections can make it difficult to manage in our daily lives - let alone find support. However, I believe that therapy is one of the ways that we can begin the process of re-connecting with our selves, bodies, and communities. In our work together, I will seek to provide an openness that meets you where you’re at with empathy and non-judgement.
(587) 871-8396 View (587) 871-8396
Photo of Marie Martin, BMsc, RPC, NLP, Counsellor
Marie Martin
Counsellor, BMsc, RPC, NLP
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y  (Online Only)
Counselling, Psychotherapy, Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy CBT, Conversational Intelligence & other modalities. Therapy for trauma, abuse, addictive behaviours, PTSD. Excellence Communication Skills Counselling to be the best version and have the best version of your relationships, personal, business & family. Marie Martin is the author of modality and book Metatron's Code available on Amazon. (Additional certificates: Master NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) Practitioner & Certified Communications Specialist Certified Hypnosis Practitioner & Quantum, Conversational Intelligence Neuroscience)
Counselling, Psychotherapy, Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy CBT, Conversational Intelligence & other modalities. Therapy for trauma, abuse, addictive behaviours, PTSD. Excellence Communication Skills Counselling to be the best version and have the best version of your relationships, personal, business & family. Marie Martin is the author of modality and book Metatron's Code available on Amazon. (Additional certificates: Master NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) Practitioner & Certified Communications Specialist Certified Hypnosis Practitioner & Quantum, Conversational Intelligence Neuroscience)
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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.