Chronic Illness Therapists in Oakville, ON

Photo of Stephanie Colaco, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Stephanie Colaco
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6J
I focus on helping clients that struggle with chronic illness, low self worth, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I understand that life is full of challenges, and you shouldn’t have to face them all by yourself. My passion lies in helping you learn to accept yourself as you are, reinforcing the belief that your daily presence is 100% enough. As a therapist, and a certified yoga teacher, I’m committed to fostering a mind-body connection in our sessions. I believe that our bodies store our experiences, traumas and feelings, and express them through important body cues in our nervous system. As humans, we are the product of our experiences and I look forward to working through them with you, through a culturally sensitive, trauma-focused lens.
I focus on helping clients that struggle with chronic illness, low self worth, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I understand that life is full of challenges, and you shouldn’t have to face them all by yourself. My passion lies in helping you learn to accept yourself as you are, reinforcing the belief that your daily presence is 100% enough. As a therapist, and a certified yoga teacher, I’m committed to fostering a mind-body connection in our sessions. I believe that our bodies store our experiences, traumas and feelings, and express them through important body cues in our nervous system. As humans, we are the product of our experiences and I look forward to working through them with you, through a culturally sensitive, trauma-focused lens.
(289) 217-0041 View (289) 217-0041
Photo of Jennifer Gould, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer Gould
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6L
Accepting NEW clients! I offer therapy to children, youth & adults of diverse backgrounds to provide support with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, self esteem issues, emotional dysregulation, executive functioning, chronic illness, identity exploration, end of life care & more. I’m passionate about helping clients overcome life stressors/challenges, strengthen existing coping strategies & learn new practical skills to make sustainable change. I strive to provide an open, non- judgmental space for clients to explore & work through their treatment goals while ensuring safety & comfort.
Accepting NEW clients! I offer therapy to children, youth & adults of diverse backgrounds to provide support with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, self esteem issues, emotional dysregulation, executive functioning, chronic illness, identity exploration, end of life care & more. I’m passionate about helping clients overcome life stressors/challenges, strengthen existing coping strategies & learn new practical skills to make sustainable change. I strive to provide an open, non- judgmental space for clients to explore & work through their treatment goals while ensuring safety & comfort.
(289) 312-1552 View (289) 312-1552
Photo of Lynne Protain, MACP, CPC, ELI-MP, PCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lynne Protain
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CPC, ELI-MP, PCC, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
My specialties include women's health issues, burnout, chronic illness, menopause, trauma and dysfunctional families.
Sharing the challenges that have brought you here can feel daunting and vulnerable. Welcome to a warm, compassionate, calm and non-judgmental space. My specialties include trauma and abuse, chronic illness including autoimmune conditions, women’s health issues (fertility, peri-menopause, menopause, reproductive conditions etc), burnout, chronic stress, relationship issues, unhealthy and dysfunctional family patterns and learning healthy boundaries. Together we will focus on healing, understanding and creating healthier patterns so you can feel joy and feel like yourself once again. Book a free discovery call or email me directly.
My specialties include women's health issues, burnout, chronic illness, menopause, trauma and dysfunctional families.
Sharing the challenges that have brought you here can feel daunting and vulnerable. Welcome to a warm, compassionate, calm and non-judgmental space. My specialties include trauma and abuse, chronic illness including autoimmune conditions, women’s health issues (fertility, peri-menopause, menopause, reproductive conditions etc), burnout, chronic stress, relationship issues, unhealthy and dysfunctional family patterns and learning healthy boundaries. Together we will focus on healing, understanding and creating healthier patterns so you can feel joy and feel like yourself once again. Book a free discovery call or email me directly.
(437) 747-8461 View (437) 747-8461
Photo of Jessica Minervini, RP-Q, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jessica Minervini
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6K
Jessica is a Registered Psychotherapist – Qualifying with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). She provides individual therapy for adults and adolescents with developmental disabilities, ASD, chronic illness, and complex mental health issues, as well as their caregivers navigating these complex needs. In addition, Jessica works with First Responders navigating workplace trauma.
Jessica is a Registered Psychotherapist – Qualifying with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). She provides individual therapy for adults and adolescents with developmental disabilities, ASD, chronic illness, and complex mental health issues, as well as their caregivers navigating these complex needs. In addition, Jessica works with First Responders navigating workplace trauma.
(289) 212-8283 View (289) 212-8283
Photo of Haya Alshawa, MA , Registered Psychotherapist
Haya Alshawa
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M  (Online Only)
Life's journey often presents us with challenges that can feel overwhelming and persistent. Just as the tide shapes the shoreline, our experiences with trauma, relationships, anxiety, depression, grief, and chronic illness can reshape our sense of self and well-being. I believe in the transformative power of therapy, where even the most consistent patterns can evolve. Using a blend of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, trauma-informed therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I guide my clients through these changes.
Life's journey often presents us with challenges that can feel overwhelming and persistent. Just as the tide shapes the shoreline, our experiences with trauma, relationships, anxiety, depression, grief, and chronic illness can reshape our sense of self and well-being. I believe in the transformative power of therapy, where even the most consistent patterns can evolve. Using a blend of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, trauma-informed therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I guide my clients through these changes.
(289) 272-0930 View (289) 272-0930
Photo of Mojgan (Megan) Rasaei, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Mojgan (Megan) Rasaei
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H
Are you seeking support and guidance to navigate life's challenges and find a path towards healing and growth? At my practice, I extend a warm and understanding hand to individuals who are grappling with a wide spectrum of concerns, including anxiety, ADHD, chronic illness, depression, adolescent emotional and behavioral difficulties, pregnancy and postpartum mental wellness, self-injurious behavior, sleep issues, stress management, coping strategies, motor vehicle accidents, and trauma. My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in compassion, acceptance, loving kindness, and mindfulness.
Are you seeking support and guidance to navigate life's challenges and find a path towards healing and growth? At my practice, I extend a warm and understanding hand to individuals who are grappling with a wide spectrum of concerns, including anxiety, ADHD, chronic illness, depression, adolescent emotional and behavioral difficulties, pregnancy and postpartum mental wellness, self-injurious behavior, sleep issues, stress management, coping strategies, motor vehicle accidents, and trauma. My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in compassion, acceptance, loving kindness, and mindfulness.
(905) 330-8832 View (905) 330-8832
Photo of Polly Sidher - Moksha Psychotherapy, Counselling & Consulting, MSW, BSW, AA, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Moksha Psychotherapy, Counselling & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, AA, RSW
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H
Are there areas in your life that you'd like to strengthen? Do you feel 'stuck' or in a pattern that keeps you from enjoying & participating in your life fully? Are you also dealing with a chronic illness such as anxiety & depression that are impacting other areas? Would you like a safe & confidential space & time reserved just for you and/or a loved one to process past & current life events, build new coping skills and outcomes with a better quality of life? If so, let's arrange a session after your initial consultation so that I can help YOU help yourself again! We have a growing team of Psychotherapists.
Are there areas in your life that you'd like to strengthen? Do you feel 'stuck' or in a pattern that keeps you from enjoying & participating in your life fully? Are you also dealing with a chronic illness such as anxiety & depression that are impacting other areas? Would you like a safe & confidential space & time reserved just for you and/or a loved one to process past & current life events, build new coping skills and outcomes with a better quality of life? If so, let's arrange a session after your initial consultation so that I can help YOU help yourself again! We have a growing team of Psychotherapists.
(289) 278-9736 View (289) 278-9736
Photo of Cassandra Umbriaco - CU Therapy - Cassandra Umbriaco, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
CU Therapy - Cassandra Umbriaco
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6M  (Online Only)
Are you navigating the complex world of cancer? If you’re feeling overwhelmed and looking for support, you’re in the right place. I’m passionate about creating a safe space and helping clients (patients and caregivers) navigate cancer and its lifelong challenges. I’m dedicated to providing compassionate care and helping you navigate through your toughest moments - surviving, thriving and everything in-between. While my niche is oncology, I also specialize in working with other issues, including anxiety, body image, burnout, chronic illness, depression, grief/loss, life transitions and relationships.
Are you navigating the complex world of cancer? If you’re feeling overwhelmed and looking for support, you’re in the right place. I’m passionate about creating a safe space and helping clients (patients and caregivers) navigate cancer and its lifelong challenges. I’m dedicated to providing compassionate care and helping you navigate through your toughest moments - surviving, thriving and everything in-between. While my niche is oncology, I also specialize in working with other issues, including anxiety, body image, burnout, chronic illness, depression, grief/loss, life transitions and relationships.
(289) 278-9929 View (289) 278-9929
Photo of Brittany Peddle - Brittany Peddle | Trauma Therapist, BHA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Brittany Peddle | Trauma Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BHA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H  (Online Only)
Yes, you can learn better ways to cope with life’s struggles, and yes, it’s also possible to overcome your trauma. Personally, I know what it's like to feel stuck, overwhelmed, and burnt out, wanting the support to heal but not knowing where to start or who to turn to. Anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic illness, PTSD, and even ADHD can all result from trauma. They're clear signs that it’s time for you to make changes but it’s hard to do it on your own. If you’re tired of trying to figure it out yourself then let me help you. Let's work together to help you develop healthier coping, process your trauma, and finally feel better.
Yes, you can learn better ways to cope with life’s struggles, and yes, it’s also possible to overcome your trauma. Personally, I know what it's like to feel stuck, overwhelmed, and burnt out, wanting the support to heal but not knowing where to start or who to turn to. Anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic illness, PTSD, and even ADHD can all result from trauma. They're clear signs that it’s time for you to make changes but it’s hard to do it on your own. If you’re tired of trying to figure it out yourself then let me help you. Let's work together to help you develop healthier coping, process your trauma, and finally feel better.
(289) 274-1957 View (289) 274-1957
Photo of Natalie Sullivan, BSCN, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Natalie Sullivan
Registered Psychotherapist, BSCN, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M
For caregivers or individuals with chronic illness or pain, I can provide a place to process the emotions and offer suggestions regarding accessing additional health services.
As a mature registered psychotherapist with a background in nursing and plenty of life experience, I have learned that each one of us are faced with our own unique challenges in life. I can help clients explore ways to cope with anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, anger, grieving, change, or traumatic events. I am a very good listener and work hard to help people learn about themselves and find ways to manage their distress in ways that make sense and are practical for them. Sometimes we just need to talk to someone we trust in a safe space - that's the relationship I strive to build with every client.
For caregivers or individuals with chronic illness or pain, I can provide a place to process the emotions and offer suggestions regarding accessing additional health services.
As a mature registered psychotherapist with a background in nursing and plenty of life experience, I have learned that each one of us are faced with our own unique challenges in life. I can help clients explore ways to cope with anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationships, anger, grieving, change, or traumatic events. I am a very good listener and work hard to help people learn about themselves and find ways to manage their distress in ways that make sense and are practical for them. Sometimes we just need to talk to someone we trust in a safe space - that's the relationship I strive to build with every client.
(226) 457-3580 View (226) 457-3580
Photo of Jane van de Ven, RN, MScN, CNP/CPN
Jane van de Ven
RN, MScN, CNP/CPN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6L  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or depression from work/life burnout, chronic illness (e.g., addiction, cancer, pain), toxic relationships or intimate partner violence, traumatic pregnancy, labour and delivery or postpartum, autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), identifying as two-spirited, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (2SLGBTQ+), or having symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from careers such as teaching, military, corrections, and healthcare? Is your goal to mentally heal and bring health and wellness into your life?
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or depression from work/life burnout, chronic illness (e.g., addiction, cancer, pain), toxic relationships or intimate partner violence, traumatic pregnancy, labour and delivery or postpartum, autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), identifying as two-spirited, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (2SLGBTQ+), or having symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from careers such as teaching, military, corrections, and healthcare? Is your goal to mentally heal and bring health and wellness into your life?
(343) 801-1367 View (343) 801-1367
Photo of Anders Dorbeck, PsyD, Psychologist
Anders Dorbeck
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M  (Online Only)
I work with people who have a wide variety of presenting concerns, sometimes including multiple complex difficulties, including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, problems with interpersonal relationships and communication, chronic pain and other chronic health problems, trauma, occupational challenges, and low self esteem. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and other approaches to teach you to make lasting behavioural changes in your life.
I work with people who have a wide variety of presenting concerns, sometimes including multiple complex difficulties, including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, problems with interpersonal relationships and communication, chronic pain and other chronic health problems, trauma, occupational challenges, and low self esteem. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and other approaches to teach you to make lasting behavioural changes in your life.
(289) 272-7153 View (289) 272-7153
Photo of Dr. Sheila Tervit, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Sheila Tervit
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6M
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile to decide if I am the right psychologist for you. I strive to put people at ease as they take the important step of seeking therapy. My goal is to empower individuals to face challenges and make lasting changes in their lives by building their coping skills and strategies. I am experienced in a variety of evidenced-based treatments and utilize a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach with individuals that incorporates components of interpersonal and acceptance & commitment therapies. When working with couples, I emphasize an Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) approach.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile to decide if I am the right psychologist for you. I strive to put people at ease as they take the important step of seeking therapy. My goal is to empower individuals to face challenges and make lasting changes in their lives by building their coping skills and strategies. I am experienced in a variety of evidenced-based treatments and utilize a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach with individuals that incorporates components of interpersonal and acceptance & commitment therapies. When working with couples, I emphasize an Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) approach.
(289) 271-1967 View (289) 271-1967
Photo of Dora Zalai, MD, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dora Zalai
Psychologist, MD, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H
I had been a medical doctor before I became a psychologist. I changed professions because I realized that our thoughts, feelings, and behavioural habits have a powerful effect on our health and happiness but their potential to aid healing is often neglected in medicine. I feel privileged to work with clients who are on the journey of recovery and self-growth during and after adversities. I work with clients who have sleep problems, fatigue, stress, low mood, depression, anxiety, panic, chronic worry, obsessive thinking, post-concussion syndrome, medical illnesses, or chronic pain.
I had been a medical doctor before I became a psychologist. I changed professions because I realized that our thoughts, feelings, and behavioural habits have a powerful effect on our health and happiness but their potential to aid healing is often neglected in medicine. I feel privileged to work with clients who are on the journey of recovery and self-growth during and after adversities. I work with clients who have sleep problems, fatigue, stress, low mood, depression, anxiety, panic, chronic worry, obsessive thinking, post-concussion syndrome, medical illnesses, or chronic pain.
(905) 338-1397 View (905) 338-1397
Photo of Ekta Hattangady, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Ekta Hattangady
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H  (Online Only)
Therapy with me is about befriending oneself unconditionally, with compassion and kindness. Through traumas, life transitions, mistakes, and successes, mindfulness can be that constant strategy that allows you to be grounded firmly in your healing. My approach is holistic, and one that synthesizes the mind, body, and spirit. My work is rooted in yoga and Buddhist practices and my professional social work experience of 18 years. My practice is LGBTQIA2S-affirming, pro-fat and anti-racist. My areas of specialty are: anxiety, depression, chronic/terminal illness, grief, burnout, body image, relationships, and immigrant issues.
Therapy with me is about befriending oneself unconditionally, with compassion and kindness. Through traumas, life transitions, mistakes, and successes, mindfulness can be that constant strategy that allows you to be grounded firmly in your healing. My approach is holistic, and one that synthesizes the mind, body, and spirit. My work is rooted in yoga and Buddhist practices and my professional social work experience of 18 years. My practice is LGBTQIA2S-affirming, pro-fat and anti-racist. My areas of specialty are: anxiety, depression, chronic/terminal illness, grief, burnout, body image, relationships, and immigrant issues.
(289) 217-5649 View (289) 217-5649
Photo of Graeme Richardson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Graeme Richardson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6J  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with concerns with your mental health or physical health? Are you finding that you are feeling more anxious or depressed? Are you becoming concerned with addiction and substance use? Are you finding that your no longer living the life you want to live? If so, I may be able to help. It can be all too common for our mental health and physical health to prevent us from spending time doing the things we love and the people we care about. It can truly have a negative impact on our lives. You may feel disconnected from what is really important for you.
Are you struggling with concerns with your mental health or physical health? Are you finding that you are feeling more anxious or depressed? Are you becoming concerned with addiction and substance use? Are you finding that your no longer living the life you want to live? If so, I may be able to help. It can be all too common for our mental health and physical health to prevent us from spending time doing the things we love and the people we care about. It can truly have a negative impact on our lives. You may feel disconnected from what is really important for you.
(289) 278-8855 View (289) 278-8855
Photo of Kathryn Weiser, MHSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kathryn Weiser
Registered Social Worker, MHSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
At some point in most relationships, couples experience conflict and sexual disconnection. I help individuals/couples struggling with verbal & sexual communication so they can develop healthier relationships and/or increased sexual connectedness. Are you struggling with communication issues? Conflict? Differences in desire? Illness? Trust issues? Arousal issues? Sexual trauma? I can help you gain insight into your challenges and provide tools to strengthen communication and improve sexual/ intimacy experiences. I help clients with medical issues such as cancer and chronic pain cope so you can have an increased quality of life.
At some point in most relationships, couples experience conflict and sexual disconnection. I help individuals/couples struggling with verbal & sexual communication so they can develop healthier relationships and/or increased sexual connectedness. Are you struggling with communication issues? Conflict? Differences in desire? Illness? Trust issues? Arousal issues? Sexual trauma? I can help you gain insight into your challenges and provide tools to strengthen communication and improve sexual/ intimacy experiences. I help clients with medical issues such as cancer and chronic pain cope so you can have an increased quality of life.
(647) 957-7821 View (647) 957-7821
Photo of Sarah McMillan, MA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sarah McMillan
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H  (Online Only)
Is your life not how you imagined it would be? Are you feeling disconnected, scared, overwhelmed or worried? You are not alone with your very human struggles. I offer a gentle, encouraging and person-centered approach to helping you find stability, live with more openness and ease and grow in the directions you choose. Whether you're facing a sudden life change, a long-term challenge or you would like to keep up the momentum on your path to self discovery, my practice is here for you.
Is your life not how you imagined it would be? Are you feeling disconnected, scared, overwhelmed or worried? You are not alone with your very human struggles. I offer a gentle, encouraging and person-centered approach to helping you find stability, live with more openness and ease and grow in the directions you choose. Whether you're facing a sudden life change, a long-term challenge or you would like to keep up the momentum on your path to self discovery, my practice is here for you.
(647) 370-9624 View (647) 370-9624
Photo of Lola Edwards, CCC, MA, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Lola Edwards
Registered Psychotherapist, CCC, MA, BSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H  (Online Only)
How well do you enjoy your life? Would you like to manage your emotions better? You don’t have to go through these struggles alone. Over the years, I have worked with individuals (adults, teens, children, parents), and couples. I am well-equipped to guide you through various forms of emotional distress, including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma and relationship difficulties. In sessions with me, I will help you discover the root cause(s) of what has been holding you back – unhelpful thinking patterns, emotional wounds, and past hurt.
How well do you enjoy your life? Would you like to manage your emotions better? You don’t have to go through these struggles alone. Over the years, I have worked with individuals (adults, teens, children, parents), and couples. I am well-equipped to guide you through various forms of emotional distress, including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma and relationship difficulties. In sessions with me, I will help you discover the root cause(s) of what has been holding you back – unhelpful thinking patterns, emotional wounds, and past hurt.
(548) 489-0095 View (548) 489-0095
Photo of Jessica Sandhu, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessica Sandhu
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H  (Online Only)
Reaching out for support can be a very challenging task but it is also the first step to get you closer to living your preferred life. In therapy, we will work together to clarify your life's vision, explore what is getting in the way of you reaching your goals, identify what skills and strengths you have to overcome these barriers, while also learning new skills and ways of thinking. During this process, I am committed to creating a respectful space where you will feel heard, acknowledged, supported and understood. I work with clients of all ages, backgrounds and identities and strive to create a safe and inclusive space for all.
Reaching out for support can be a very challenging task but it is also the first step to get you closer to living your preferred life. In therapy, we will work together to clarify your life's vision, explore what is getting in the way of you reaching your goals, identify what skills and strengths you have to overcome these barriers, while also learning new skills and ways of thinking. During this process, I am committed to creating a respectful space where you will feel heard, acknowledged, supported and understood. I work with clients of all ages, backgrounds and identities and strive to create a safe and inclusive space for all.
(289) 809-5338 View (289) 809-5338

See more therapy options for Oakville

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.